Parole Project celebrated Second Chance Week this month, five days dedicated to appreciating the people, partners, clients, and acts of service that move our mission forward. Each day, Parole Project welcomed a group of strategic partners to our office to acknowledge their contributions and support. Executive Director Andrew Hundley spoke about the power of redemption, second chances, and investing in others to build a safer and stronger Louisiana.
Since 2016, Parole Project has helped more than 680 men and women return home from prison with a less than 3 percent recidivism rate.
“We couldn’t do everything we do without partners,” Hundley said. “Each one of you here helps make us better at what we do. Our goal is public safety and how do we improve public safety? By giving men and women the best opportunity to be successful when they come home from prison. This is a small token of our appreciation for you.”
Thursday, April 8: Corrections Professionals Appreciation Day
On Thursday, staff from the Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections joined Parole Project. State Rep. Emily Chenevert thanked the organization for our work in the community and reiterated that public safety remains a top priority for the legislature. Chenevert also spoke about how second chances strengthen communities when they’re supported by thoughtful policy and strong partnerships. Her words echoed what is seen every day, that collaboration across systems is essential to helping people come home and stay home.
Monday, April 13: Public Servants Appreciation Day with an appearance on Louisiana First News
The week opened with recognition of the public servants whose decisions and daily work make meaningful second chances possible. Elected officials, agency staff, and justice-system partners were recognized for championing smart reentry practices and policies that prioritize both accountability and opportunity, and how those priorities, along with Parole Project’s program, set the stage for every success story that follows.
Tuesday: Reentry Volunteers Appreciation Day with an appearance on WBRZ with April Davis
Tuesday celebrated the volunteers who walk alongside our clients as they navigate life after prison. People from ministry groups, local colleges and universities, and community organizations joined us as we highlighted the many ways they show up — with time, compassion, and a willingness to help someone rebuild.
Several current and former clients shared how volunteers made them feel accepted, supported, and prepared for what’s ahead. “There are so many people who work with us and do what we do to help us change lives,” said Matthew Pineda, community engagement manager who was also a Parole Project client. “Thank you all for being a part of charging my batteries and all of the batteries of our clients and staff.”
Wednesday: Companion Animal Alliance Volunteer Event
Midweek, Parole Project staff and clients spent the afternoon giving back by walking dogs at Companion Animal Alliance. For two hours, they offered wagging tails a break from the kennels, shared plenty of sunshine and affection, and enjoyed the simple pleasure that comes from helping animals who are waiting for homes of their own.
Thursday, April 16: Stakeholders Appreciation Day with an appearance on Mornings with Brian Haldane
On Thursday, the focus shifted to the role of employment and education in our clients’ long‑term success. Local employers, philanthropists, and education partners joined Parole Project staff in hopeful and honest conversation that highlighted how stable employment reduces recidivism, strengthens families, and gives formerly incarcerated persons the dignity of building a future on their own terms.
“Please take this opportunity to meet other partners and figure out ways to grow this network,” Hundley told the group. “From all our staff and clients, thank you for what you do to help improve the quality of our clients’ lives and improve public safety through smart reentry. We hope we are able to partner with you for a long time to come.”
Friday: Client & Family Appreciation Day
The week closed with one of Parole Project’s most meaningful traditions: Client and Family Appreciation Day. Clients and their loved ones gathered for food, photos, and a chance to recognize the many success stories in the room. Families spoke about what it means to have their loved one home again, and how they’re adjusting to this new chapter together. Second Chance Week is a reminder that redemption is possible, not just in theory, but in the lives of ordinary men and women every single day. Through simple acts of service, compassion, and partnership, our communities become safer, our families become stronger, and our state becomes better. Parole Project is deeply grateful to everyone who joined throughout the week. Your support fuels this work, and together, we’ll continue proving what’s possible when people are given a real chance to succeed.
