Uniontown, Alabama – J.F. Ingram State Technical College, in partnership with the Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Paroles and GEO Group, recently celebrated a significant milestone as 53 individuals successfully completed the comprehensive Perry County Pardons & Paroles Reentry and Education Program (PREP) Center in Uniontown.
Program Overview
The PREP Program represents a collaborative effort between three crucial organizations working together to provide justice-involved individuals with the resources, training, and support necessary for successful community reintegration. This innovative program takes a holistic approach to reentry services, addressing multiple aspects of workforce preparation and personal development.
Comprehensive Training Components
Graduates of the program participated in extensive industry training designed to prepare them for immediate employment opportunities. The curriculum included:
Technical Skills Training: Participants received hands-on certification in forklift and skid steer operation through the Alabama Community College System (ACCS) Innovation Center, providing them with valuable equipment operation skills highly sought after in various industries.
Reentry Services: The program provided comprehensive reentry support services to help individuals navigate the challenges of transitioning back into the community, including assistance with documentation, housing resources, and social services connections.
Job Preparation Training: Participants engaged in extensive workforce readiness training, including resume development, interview skills, workplace communication, and professional development to ensure they are prepared to enter the job market successfully.
Partnership Impact
The success of the PREP Program demonstrates the power of strategic partnerships in addressing community needs. J.F. Ingram State Technical College brings educational expertise and workforce development resources, while the Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Paroles provides reentry support and case management services. GEO Group contributes facility resources and program administration, creating a comprehensive support system for participants.
Community Benefits
The PREP Program not only benefits the individuals who participate but also strengthens the broader community by reducing recidivism and providing local employers with trained, motivated workers. By investing in reentry education and workforce development, the program contributes to safer communities and a stronger local economy.
The 53 graduates represent more than just program completion statistics – they represent hope, opportunity, and the transformative power of education and second chances. Their success demonstrates that with the right support and training, individuals can overcome past challenges and become productive members of society.
Looking Forward
J.F. Ingram State Technical College remains committed to expanding opportunities for justice-involved individuals and continuing its partnership with the Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Paroles and GEO Group. The success of the PREP Program serves as a model for other reentry initiatives and demonstrates the positive impact that can be achieved through collaborative, comprehensive approaches to workforce development and community reintegration.
For more information about J.F. Ingram State Technical College's programs and services, visit our website at ISTC.edu.