ABPP Celebrates Second Chances for Nearly 50 PREP Center Graduates

By Jakiya Dudley, Media Specialist

UNIONTOWN, Ala. – In celebration of Second Chance Month this April, the Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Paroles underscores its commitment to rehabilitation and second chances through the impactful work of the Perry County PREP Center. On Friday, April 4, ABPP, in collaboration with J.F. Ingram State Technical College, the GEO Group, and state legislators, honored nearly 50 new graduates from the PREP Center in Uniontown. This ceremony elevates the total number of graduates to well over 300 since the center’s opening in April 2022. Among those graduates, 0% of participants have returned to incarceration, exemplifying the program’s effectiveness in reducing recidivism.

The PREP Center offers comprehensive reentry and rehabilitation services to probationers and parolees across Alabama. These efforts represent the true meaning of Second Chance Month by fostering opportunities for individuals to rebuild their lives and contribute positively to their communities.

Alabama Representative of District 67 Prince Chestnut acknowledged the immense courage it took for the participants to commit to the 90-day program. “Second chances matter,” he said. “And what you’ve done here is more than just complete a program, you’ve made an investment in yourself.” Chestnut emphasized that success after reentry isn’t just about opportunity, it’s about character. “This journey takes integrity. It takes accountability. And if you carry those values with you into the workforce, you’ll already be ahead of the curve.” He encouraged the graduates to hold on to the same drive and determination that got them through the program.

ABPP Director Cam Ward delivered an uplifting message, expressing how proud he is of each of the graduates. Drawing inspiration from one of his personal favorites, the powerful Rocky Balboa quote, he said, “Life isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. It’s not about how hard you hit, but how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward.” He emphasized that despite the challenges they faced, the graduates had proven their strength and resilience. “You’ve shown incredible courage,” he said, “and you’ve kept moving forward. We believe in you, and we couldn’t be prouder of the journey you’ve taken. This is just the beginning of the next chapter in your lives.”

Board Member Darryl Littleton opened the ceremony with a powerful metaphor reminding the graduates to remain self-aware and make intentional decisions throughout their new chapters. “Keep your grass cut so the snakes won’t get in,” he said, emphasizing the importance of staying focused and maintaining a clean life is key to keeping negativity out. “We’re extremely proud of each of you for showing resilience and seeing this journey through because we know this wasn’t easy.”

Graduate Maury Garrett delivered heartfelt remarks that reflected the emotion in the room. “Thank you for sharing this special achievement with us today,” he began. He thanked Jesus Christ and the program staff for their support and spoke about the past 90 days as a time of growth, hope, and valuable career training. “We’re truly grateful,” he said. “Thank you for believing in us.”

One of the most unique moments of the ceremony came when five graduates gathered and sang a soulful a cappella song. They sang the lyrics, “I got victory on my way home.” The room shifted as their voices filled the space. This memorable performance brought a new energy to the ceremony, symbolizing their strength and the hopeful journey ahead. The lyrics spoke to their transformation, marking the beginning of a new path forward.

ISTC Director of Pardons and Paroles Programs Lashanda Hails commended the graduates for taking the process seriously and recognizing it as more than just a requirement, but as a true investment in themselves.
“You’ve made a decision to better your life, and that’s something to be proud of,” she said. “Now, go out into the world and live up to the level of greatness you’re capable of.”

Lakrystal Love, Director of The GEO Group reminded the graduates that they didn’t simply finish a program but instead they rewrote their story. “You’ve faced challenges, but you didn’t let them define you,” she said. “This isn’t the end, it’s a new beginning. Go out and show the world what real transformation looks like.”

As we celebrate Second Chance Month, the ceremony in honor of these graduates highlights the transformative power of new beginnings. The PREP Center provides essential support and opportunities, helping individuals rewrite their stories. Today’s graduates show what’s possible when given a second chance. Check out more of our Second Chance Month celebrations here: https://paroles.alabama.gov/2025/04/01/second-chances-for-stronger-communities-abpp-celebrates-national-second-chance-month/

A video of the full PREP Center commencement can be accessed here: https://www.youtube.com/live/KPAt6v6Sv2U?si=Y16XXYULnNdmhMuX