TDCJ News

29th Annual Governor’s Criminal Justice Volunteer Service Awards

Dallas-Based Organization Receives Governor’s Criminal Justice Volunteer Service Award

TBCJ Chairman Eric Nichols, Evelyn Fulbright and Angelica Zaragoza (on behalf of Brittany Barnett), Texas First Lady Cecilia Abbott and TDCJ Executive Director Bryan Collier (L-R).

(AUSTIN) – Girls Embracing Mothers, Inc. (GEMS) in Dallas, Texas, was presented the Best Family Program Award during the 29th Annual Governor’s Criminal Justice Volunteer Service Awards Ceremony today.

The award was presented by Texas First Lady Cecilia Abbott, Texas Board of Criminal Justice Chairman Eric Nichols, and Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) Executive Director Bryan Collier at a ceremony in Austin.

“These award recipients, by volunteering countless hours, are helping to build a better Texas for themselves and everyone whose lives they touch,” Nichols said. “It is an honor to recognize them for their hard work and dedication.”

“These volunteers are true heroes,” Collier said. “Their compassion and commitment make a profound and lasting difference in the lives of many Texans. TDCJ, and the entire state, is better because of their service.”

GEMS is a Dallas-based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that provides programming designed for incarcerated mothers and their daughters. GEMS has facilitated the Pearl Program at the Woodman State Jail since 2013. The Pearl Program strengthens the mother-daughter relationship through enhanced visitation sessions to include sharing a meal and art therapy projects.

GEMS was one of 22 organizations and individuals from across the state recognized for their efforts to help inmates and those who are on parole or probation. They donate many hours of their personal time every year with the goal of changing lives.