The Alabama Department of Pardons and Parole announced last week that 33 inmates have completed rehabilitation programs offered by the Tuscaloosa Day Reporting Center, which provides inmates with a combination of counseling, educational training and close supervision.
The ceremony was held in the Shelton State Community College gymnasium with family and friends in attendance.
On Friday we celebrated 33 Tuscaloosa Day Report Center graduates. This marked the beginning of a new journey for each of them. Read more here. https://t.co/SXuafrUXj6
— Alabama Board of Pardons and Parole (@ABPPalabamagov) May 29, 2024
Director Cam Ward spoke at the event about the importance of maintaining a positive mindset and shared an important acronym for program participants.
Congratulations to everyone! #Re-entry Today we have graduates gathering in Tuscaloosa and we are so proud of so many of you who are striving for a second chance at life. It's a great day to see so many people on the road to recovery! translation:
— Cam Ward (@DirectorCamWard) May 24, 2024
The acronym Ward discussed stands for HOW, with “H” standing for “integrity,” “O” standing for “open-mindedness,” and “W” standing for “willingness.”
“Honesty doesn't just mean being honest with your loved ones, it also means being honest with yourself,” Ward says. “You have to be open to criticism and correction. And finally, you have to be willing to do whatever it takes to get your life back on track.”
“This is how you get through life's challenges.”
The department released a statement after the ceremony, praising those who completed the program.
“The 33 Tuscaloosa DRC graduates have demonstrated incredible dedication,” the department said. “Their journeys are powerful examples of the impact that transformative support, education and personal dedication can have. The Alabama Department of Pardons and Paroles is proud of them all.”
“We are proud to support their reintegration into society.”
Austin Shipley is a staff writer for Yellow Hammer News. You can follow him on X. @ShipleyAusten
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