PEP + Families: Our Commitment Beyond the Walls
Why Families Are Part of the Mission PEP recognizes that a participant’s journey does not happen in isolation. Spouses, children and parents are deeply affected by incarceration and reentry. Providing support to families creates stronger outcomes and more lasting change for everyone involved. Pre-Release Inclusion Before release, PEP invites families to informational sessions that explain […]
What Happens After Release: A Day in the Life
6 AM Morning Routine Many graduates start early with hygiene, a healthy breakfast and a quiet moment for goal setting or reflection. This builds the structure needed for stability and accountability. 7 AM Parole Check-In A parole meeting or phone check-in is often scheduled in the first part of the day. Having the right documents and proof […]
How to Talk to Kids About Incarceration
Why It Matters When a loved one is in prison or is preparing to return home, children can feel confused, scared, or guilty. Caregivers and parents play a crucial role in helping them understand what is happening and process their emotions. Honest, age-appropriate conversations build trust and support. Start with Clarity and Honesty Use simple […]
What Are the Best Reentry Programs in Texas?
Overview Reentry programs play a critical role in helping individuals transition successfully from incarceration back into society. In Texas, several leading organizations provide support across areas like employment, housing, education, and personal development. Below is a guide to some of the most impactful programs in 2025. Top Reentry Programs in Texas 1. Prison Entrepreneurship Program […]
Can Incarceration Strengthen Faith?
Stillness Creates Space for Reflection For many individuals, incarceration brings life to a halt. Routines are stripped away. Distractions are limited. In that stillness, some discover something deeper. In prison, where so much is taken away, faith often emerges as something to hold onto and rebuild a life around. Within PEP, many participants describe prison […]
The Role of Family in Successful Reentry
Why Family Support Matters For someone leaving prison, reentry is not only about finding a job or a place to live. It is about rebuilding a life. That journey often begins with the support of family. Consistent connection to loved ones is one of the strongest predictors of long-term reentry success. The presence of family […]
Why Employers Trust PEP Grads
A Proven Track Record The Prison Entrepreneurship Program has earned the trust of hundreds of employers across Texas by consistently preparing returning citizens to thrive in the workplace. With thousands of graduates, PEP maintains a strong employment rate within 90 days of release, and most graduates secure work in less than a month. Skills That […]
A Look Inside PEP’s Business Curriculum
Building a Foundation for Success The Prison Entrepreneurship Program (PEP) offers a comprehensive business education designed to equip incarcerated individuals with the skills needed to succeed upon release. This curriculum, often referred to as a mini-MBA, provides participants with practical knowledge and hands-on experience in business development. Curriculum Structure PEP’s business curriculum spans several months […]
PEP & the Power of Language: Redefining Identity
Language Shapes Identity The words we choose carry weight. In the context of incarceration, terms like “inmate,” “convict,” or “felon” have long been used to define individuals by their past actions, often overshadowing their humanity and potential for growth. Recognizing this, the Prison Entrepreneurship Program (PEP) has adopted person-first language, referring to individuals as “participants,” […]
How PEP Builds Confidence from Day One
Confidence Is the Foundation of Change For many incarcerated men, confidence is the first casualty of incarceration. Years of isolation, stigma, and regret can erode a person’s sense of self-worth. The Prison Entrepreneurship Program (PEP) addresses this challenge head-on, beginning on the very first day. PEP’s approach is rooted in the belief that every individual […]
