Five participants in the STAND program were recognized during a graduation ceremony in City Council Chambers after completing the voluntary program that assists those with a criminal history. The program allows the participants to move forward in their lives through education, employment, family devotion and community involvement.
The program involves counseling, mental and physical health, drug counseling, education, employment assistance, community service and reconciliation.
Phase I of the one-year program involved completion of several courses of study and counseling in order for participants to advance into the next two phases of the program. Four of the graduates are full-time workers and the fifth is a currently enrolled as a full-time college student.
Sgt. Charity Prosser, S.T.A.N.D. program administrator said, “This is a challenging program that demands a commitment to change and the dedication to complete every phase of the program and we couldn’t be more proud of the men and women who participated in the program. They have shown their desire to become productive citizens despite prior obstacles.”
Sixteen candidates have been selected for the next S.T.A.N.D. class which begins in January.