DOTHAN, Ala. (WDNews) — Houston County’s jail will join a national education and rehabilitation initiative Oct. 20, according to the Houston County Sheriff’s Office.
The program, called I.G.N.I.T.E., stands for Inmate Growth Naturally and Intentionally Through Education. Houston County will become Alabama’s seventh site and the 48th nationwide.
“I.G.N.I.T.E. gives us an opportunity to go beyond incarceration by providing education, accountability, and the tools individuals need to make better choices. When we invest in positive change, we invest in safer communities,” Sheriff Donald Valenza said.
Participants can earn privileges and opportunities through consistent involvement in educational programs. The initiative uses structured lessons and community partnerships to support learning inside the jail.
“Our goal is to help individuals leave our facility better prepared than when they entered. Through education, rehabilitation, and community partnerships, we hope to reduce repeat offenses and create lasting change,” Valenza said.
The initiative was created by Sheriff Christopher Swanson of Genesee County, Michigan, and is led nationally by the National Sheriffs’ Association.
Community members, partners and local leaders are invited to attend the launch. The Sheriff’s Office is also seeking volunteers, sponsors and community partners to expand education and workforce training.
Anyone interested in helping can contact Chaplain Mark Pickett at [email protected].
