“My name is Tyler R. I remember the day I was getting released from prison like it was yesterday. I was sitting at CIP waiting for New Freedom to pick me up. I can tell you I was worried I was sitting up there for nothing. Just thinking to myself they aren’t come to get you. So after sitting there for two hours the CO walked up to me saying ‘Mr. R., grab your things your ride is here.’ That was the best feeling to know I was finally leaving I was excited! Now it was time for me to start a new chapter of my life. I knew what I wanted to do I just didn’t know how I was going to actually accomplish it. After three and a half hours of driving I finally arrived at New Freedom, I walked in to the doors and the first thing I hear was “WELCOME HOME” from everyone. When I heard that I knew this place was different from anywhere I’ve been before. It did take me a while to adjust to everything but after two weeks I felt like I was home, and I could accomplish anything! I want everyone to know that New Freedom helped me accomplish everything I wanted to do. I was able to finish my G.E.D. and start into college courses. If I had to give you any advice is to network with everyone there, because you never know what that one person can help you with. Never say you can’t do it because that’s far from the truth, you can accomplish anything you put your mind to!”

– Tyler R | Graduated October 2021