What Is the Reentry Process in Texas?
What Does “Reentry” Mean in Texas? Reentry refers to the process of preparing incarcerated individuals to successfully return to society after release. In Texas, reentry begins before someone leaves prison and continues through their first months or years back in the community. This process includes planning for housing, employment, education, healthcare, and personal support. Who […]
How PEP Measures Success Beyond Profit
Business Is Just One Outcome At the Prison Entrepreneurship Program, starting a business is one of many outcomes, but it is not the only measure of success. The program prepares men for entrepreneurship, but also for leadership, employment, and personal responsibility. When a participant transforms his thinking and follows through on his commitments, that matters […]
What Jobs Hire Felons in Texas?
Can Felons Get Hired in Texas? Yes. Many companies in Texas do hire individuals with felony records, especially those who demonstrate accountability, have gained new skills, or are part of a reentry program like PEP. While some industries have restrictions based on licensing, there are still plenty of pathways to meaningful work. What Industries Commonly […]
How Families Are Supported During PEP Programs
Reentry Begins With Family At the Prison Entrepreneurship Program, reentry is not a one-person journey. The growth that takes place inside the program reaches beyond the participant. It touches families, children, and entire support systems. When a man commits to change, the impact often begins at home. PEP recognizes this and builds family awareness and […]
How to Write Letters to Inmates: Connection Matters
Why Letters Matter A letter can do more than pass the time. For someone in prison, it can be a source of encouragement, reflection, and hope. In a setting where contact with the outside world is limited, a thoughtful message carries real weight. Whether you are writing to a friend, family member, or someone you […]
Myth-Busting: What Most People Get Wrong About Prisoners
Breaking the Narrative The conversation about incarceration in America is often shaped by fear, stereotypes, and outdated assumptions. These narratives affect public policy, hiring decisions, and how returning citizens are treated when they reenter society. At the Prison Entrepreneurship Program, we work with men who are proving those narratives wrong every day. To move forward […]
The Truth About Recidivism—and How PEP Breaks the Cycle
What Is Recidivism? Recidivism refers to the tendency of a person with a criminal conviction to reoffend and return to prison. It is a major challenge within the U.S. justice system and one of the key indicators used to measure the effectiveness of reentry and rehabilitation programs. Nationally, the recidivism rate remains high. Studies show […]
PEP by the Numbers: 2024 Impact Recap
Transforming Lives Through Measurable Outcomes In 2024, the Prison Entrepreneurship Program delivered strong results in reducing recidivism and creating opportunities for formerly incarcerated individuals. The data below highlights the scope and effectiveness of the program’s impact. Building Stronger Communities PEP’s model combines in-prison education with post-release support to prepare participants for long-term success. This approach […]
Behind the Scenes: What Day One Looks Like in a PEP Class
A Structured Start The first day of a PEP class is focused, intentional, and unlike any other experience inside a correctional facility. Participants enter with questions and expectations. Many have heard that PEP is different. From the start, that difference is clear. Staff and volunteers greet participants by name. There are no titles, no formalities, […]
FAQ: Can You Start a Business from Prison?
Can You Start a Business While Incarcerated? Yes, but with limitations. In most prison systems, incarcerated individuals are not allowed to officially register or operate a business in their own name while serving time. However, many people begin developing business ideas, plans, and strategies during incarceration. Programs like the Prison Entrepreneurship Program (PEP) help participants […]
