What enticed you to become a Parole Officer?
I knew becoming a parole officer would allow me to be involved in shaping the lives of children and families in their communities of origin.
What drives you to do a good job?
I want all children to know that there are people in this world that really have their best interest at heart. I want the youth I serve to be successfully reintegrated into their families and communities so that the children have opportunities to create a new path. If I tie youth and families to community resources, opportunities for successful reintegration increases.
What are some of the biggest changes you’ve seen during your career?
Kids are tougher, families are less supportive of reintegration and communities seem to offer fewer resources for the children I serve. I really like that TJJD has moved towards a social service approach to decrease recidivism.
What is your proudest moment?
Marrying the love of my life and sharing eight kids with her.
What do you do in your spare time?
I spend my spare time being a husband, father, and grandfather. My life outside of work revolves around my wife and children. I like to stay active in the gym, listen to music, and practice shooting my handguns at the range.
What do you wish people knew about you?
People should know that I was a foster child for seven years. I myself became a foster parent to give back to a system that gave to me. After fostering for over 20 years, my family and I adopted five children. Yes, I have eight children!
What advice do you have to young employees just starting out today?
Don't expect windfall success when working with our youth but continually look for small approximations of success and build up from there.
What do you want your legacy to be?
I pray that others will search their hearts and find my passion to care for hurting children.