IGNITING Hope: 100+ individuals transformed from inmates to G.E.D. graduates
IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) – A transformational program is lifting people in jail, giving them qualifications for their future and hope in themselves.
Bonneville County Jail’s I.G.N.I.T.E. program achieved a milestone of 102 G.E.D. graduates in the past three years.
“It’s a big accomplishment. I have been turned down jobs in the past for not having a diploma or GED, and so this will give me, a better opportunity for a better jobs and better employment, better income,” said G.E.D. recipient Brian Moore.
I.G.N.I.T.E. stands for Inmate Growth Naturally and Intentionally Through Education and helps students advance in their education and prepare for reentry into society.
Bonneville County’s Jail was the ninth in the nation to adopt I.G.N.I.T.E. Today, with the National Sheriff’s Association, it has expanded to more than 30 jails that have caught the fire.
“Fate whispers to the warrior, you cannot withstand the storm. The warrior whispers back, I am the storm,” said Bonneville County Sheriff Sam Hulse.” I think that’s relevant to us today because it is those that choose to step into the challenge that make the difference. Each of us are burdened with challenges, but you’re built for it.”
But the true heroes are the people turning their lives around, leaving behind old habits and investing in their future careers and education, said G.E.D. Program Administrator Anne Johnson, from the Domestic Violence and Sexual Abuse Center.
“I love working with all you guys because I think the majority of people that are in jail are good people. I didn’t say all, I said the majority,” Johnson said. “So they are here due to a lot of mistakes they’ve made. People have addiction issues, mental health issues – a lot have learning disabilities.”
She recognized each graduate one-by-one for his or her intelligence, dedication and for some, perseverance learning how to read better and improve in math.
In total, more than 40 graduates have also completed the Solutions substance abuse rehabilitation program.
Idaho Falls Mayor Lisa Burtenshaw and Bonneville County Commissioners Karl Casperson, Michelle Mallard and Jon Walker issued a joint proclamation honoring the individuals’ achievements on National G.E.D. Day Wednesday.
Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office reports fewer inmates fall back into criminal activity after going through the program.
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