Parole Project celebrated Second Chance Week from April 21–25 with a series of events, media appearances, and community conversations focused on the people who help our clients succeed after incarceration. Each day honored a different group — public servants, corrections professionals, employers, volunteers, and families — whose support plays a key role in second chances.
Easter Sunday Feature: Don and Marcus share their story with WAFB
The week began with an especially meaningful story that aired on Easter Sunday.
WAFB featured a segment by reporters Rick Portier and Gabriella Mercurio about Don Allison and Marcus Cheffen. Nearly 30 years ago, Don was the victim of a robbery during which he was shot by Marcus, who was later sentenced to 95 years in prison. More than two decades later, Don participated in Louisiana’s Victim-Offender Dialogue Program and began a series of facilitated conversations with Marcus. Through that process, Don found forgiveness and Marcus found accountability. In 2020, Don supported Marcus’s release on parole. Since then, Marcus has built a successful career and he and Don have become friends.
Their story reflects the theme of Second Chance Week: people changing and communities growing when given the right opportunities.
Monday: Public Servants Appreciation Day
On Monday, we recognized the work of public servants whose efforts help make meaningful second chances possible — elected officials, key government empoyees and staff, and others who support smart reentry practices and justice initiatives.
Tuesday: Corrections Professionals Appreciation Day
Tuesday was Corrections Professionals Appreciation Day. Staff from the Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections joined us for lunch and conversation. Secretary Gary Westcott shared his perspective on second chances and said, “The work you’re doing here is making a real difference for the people we serve and for the state.”
Wednesday: Second Chance Hiring and Education
Wednesday’s event focused on employment and education. Local employers, trade representatives, and community college partners joined Parole Project staff and several clients for a roundtable about second chance hiring. Conversations centered on how stable employment reduces recidivism and strengthens families.
Thursday: Celebrating Our Volunteers
On Thursday, we honored those who gave their time and energy to help clients navigate life after prison. Several current and former clients shared how volunteers helped them feel welcome and prepare for what’s ahead.
Friday: Client and Family Appreciation Day
Friday’s Client and Family Appreciation Day closed out the week. Clients and their loved ones came together for food, photos, and to recognize the many success stories in the room. Several families spoke about the role they played in supporting their loved one’s transition and how they’re adjusting to this new chapter together.
Looking Ahead
Second Chance Week recognizes that redemption is possible and that second chances are making a difference in the lives of ordinary men and women every day of every week. Through simple acts that are giving back to our communities and families, we are safer and we are better. We’re grateful to all who joined us throughout the week and look forward to continuing the work together.
Use the buttons below to watch Second Chance Week media coverage and videos highlighting our clients’ successes.
