Athens-Clarke County Police Department

Finding hope inside the walls of a prison may seem impossible, but recent Beyond the Bars participants experienced exactly that: hope, redemption, and a renewed vision for a stronger future.

Eleven youth participants and their parents spent a recent Saturday morning hearing powerful lived experiences from parents, community members, and individuals who shared the real consequences of high-risk choices within the walls of the Athens-Clarke County Corrections Facility. This is not a “Scared Straight” program. Instead, Beyond the Bars focuses on second chances, community support, meaningful connections, and positive pathways that inspire lasting behavioral change.

Held monthly, these sessions welcome a new group of youth and their parents to learn together that there are opportunities for change, growth, and hope. To register for this free workshop, please email program coordinator Keith Sims, ACCPD Neighborhood Service Officer, at [email protected], or register at https://forms.gle/LPYMwKv8FgbE4T2u5