DOTHAN, Ala. (WDNews) — Houston County launched its I.G.N.I.T.E. initiative Tuesday, Oct. 20, expanding opportunities for inmates to continue their education, learn job skills and prepare for life after release.
According to the Houston County Sheriff’s Office, the county is Alabama’s seventh I.G.N.I.T.E. site and the 48th nationwide. The name stands for Inmate Growth Naturally and Intentionally Through Education.
“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 in a release.
Chaplain Mark Pickett, with the Houston County Sheriff’s Office, said offerings will include financial literacy and competency classes, GED instruction and workforce development.
“We have GED from Wallace Community College, as well as workforce development through Wallace College,” Pickett said.
Pickett said classes are expected to begin toward the end of November, with initial meetings to get identified students into the courses.
A jail program handout also lists ServSafe certification among upcoming offerings, along with financial competency through 5 Star Credit Union, GED and workforce development through Wallace Community College, and programming through the Alfred Saliba Family Service Center.
Teachers and volunteers connected with Wallace Community College, along with volunteers already serving at the jail, will help provide instruction.
“Most of our programs are volunteer-based,” Pickett said.
He said some programs will be provided at no cost by volunteers, with additional support through grants obtained by local organizations.
The initiative builds on existing jail programs. According to the handout, those include faith-based services, Alcoholics Anonymous, People Engaged in Recovery, and education and reentry programs through Enterprise State Community College and HIPPY Plus.
According to the sheriff’s office, I.G.N.I.T.E. participants can earn privileges and opportunities through consistent involvement in educational programming.
“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 sheriff’s office is seeking community partners, volunteers and sponsors to expand educational and workforce training opportunities. Those interested can contact Pickett at [email protected].
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