Austin— Right on Crime, the leading conservative criminal justice reform group, praised the administration’s continuing commitment to meaningful criminal justice reform through President Trump’s speech at the Hope for Prisoners graduation ceremony in Las Vegas today. Approximately thirty men will graduate from the Hope for Prisoners reentry program, which works to equip men and women exiting the judicial system to successfully reenter society.
Hope for Prisoners assists with reentry by providing the formerly incarcerated long-term support and services as they work to reclaim their lives, families and standing in the community. Founder Jon Ponder found himself returning to his community after spending time in prison and experienced firsthand the same challenges most face when they are released. He realized there was a lack of long-term support and guidance for those who learned from their mistakes.
“The President’s speech reinforced our nation’s commitment to second chances and reentry, which gives those convicted of crimes the opportunity to access the American Dream,” said John Koufos, national director of reentry initiatives at Right on Crime. “Effective reentry programs lead to jobs, family reunification, prosperity, which will create generational change.”
“Recognition by the President of the United States of the importance of reentry programs elevates hope and validates these individuals’ efforts in earning a second chance,” said former U.S. Senator Jim DeMint, a signatory to the Right on Crime Statement of Principles. “It is through programs like Hope for Prisoners that the formerly incarcerated can weave a uniquely American story of repentance, redemption, and restoration. As lives are rebuilt, so are families and communities, which makes all Americans safer and more prosperous.”