In this compelling episode of 1819 News: The Podcast, host Bryan Dawson, CEO of 1819 News, sits down with Cam Ward, Director of the Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Paroles, to tackle the critical issue of prison reentry and public safety in Alabama.

With a shared passion for balancing a tough-on-crime stance with practical solutions, Ward and Dawson dive into the innovative Parole Reentry Program (PREP) Center in Perry County. Ward shares how the program equips formerly incarcerated individuals with job training, mental health support, and substance abuse treatment to reduce recidivism and transform lives. From welding to treeline trimming, the PREP Center partners with private sector companies to provide real career opportunities, boasting a 0% recidivism rate among its 450+ graduates.

Dawson draws from his own experience with incarceration and reentry, while Ward brings his experience as a former legislator with a deep understanding of Alabama’s prison challenges to the conversation. The two discuss the importance of addressing underlying issues like addiction and mental health to break the cycle of crime. They also explore the “three-legged stool” of reentry—mental health, substance abuse treatment, and job skills—while emphasizing the power of second chances, family reconnection, and community support. 

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about forward-thinking solutions that enhance public safety, empower individuals, and address Alabama’s workforce needs.

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