Because of PEP and the Ten Driving Values, I am a new man.
As a teenager and young man, I was a very lost individual. How I became the person I am today is largely due to the program and the tools given to me while incarcerated, to apply to my life on the inside and once released. I started off as a troublesome person with no respect and values, but now I have a plan, and I have respect for society and others.
I initially thought PEP was a business program, but eventually I learned it was much more than that. I was skeptical at first, but like others, I began asking question around the unit about the program. I heard that it was very family-oriented and heavily involved in repairing broken homes. I latched onto it for that reason, because I love my family very much and I was tired of hurting them.
While in class I learned business skills, which was great. But most importantly, I learned how to identify my character flaws in the Effective Leadership training and through a number of character assessments from my peers. I also learned that I had talents and that I actually had something to contribute to the world. We were given etiquette lessons that taught me how to conduct myself in a number of circumstances. Once released, I was also given the opportunity to continue learning in our eSchool classes. Upon completion, I was given the status of alumni and in September of this year, I will receive my second diploma from PEP.
We have been given so much by PEP to guarantee our success in the real world. I have been gainfully employed since within a few days after my release, and I am now enrolling into courses to finally complete my college degree. I am closer to my family than I have ever been, and my whole thinking process has improved greatly. I owe so much to PEP. Thank you for opening my eyes and restoring my confidence in myself. I know that as long as I work hard and remain positive, I will be successful.
I continue to participate and involve myself when I can to give back. I see and others see I’m a changed individual. And for that, I want to thank everyone involved in the program. It is a life changing experience.
Jose M.
Class 20 Graduate
