TDCJ News

27th Annual Governor’s Criminal Justice Volunteer Service Awards

Tyler Man Receives Governor’s Criminal Justice Volunteer Service Award

TDCJ Executive Director Bryan Collier, Michael Unit Warden Lonnie Townsend on behalf of James Born, Texas First Lady Cecilia Abbott, and TBCJ Chairman Patrick O'Daniel (l-r).

(AUSTIN) – James Born of Tyler, Texas was presented the Religious Service Award during the Governor’s 2022 Criminal Justice Volunteer Service Awards program today.

The award was presented by Texas Board of Criminal Justice Chairman Patrick O’Daniel and TDCJ Executive Director Bryan Collier at a ceremony in Austin.

“These individuals have gone above and beyond in their volunteer efforts. No words or awards will be enough thanks for these individuals. We are grateful they decided to use their time and talents for good at TDCJ,” said O’Daniel.

“TDCJ and this state are better because of these award recipients. They are heroes who are making a profound and lasting impact on the lives of so many across the Lone Star State,” said Collier.

Mr. Born, a Certified Volunteer Chaplain’s Assistant (CVCA), has been an approved volunteer for more than 17 years. He serves with a committed spirit and is a faithful servant in KAIROS on the Michael Unit and is greatly appreciated by staff and inmates. He has been very supportive in helping the chaplains during the COVID-19 pandemic with his prayers and presence there as a CVCA, assisting with the COVID-19 wellness calls to inmates’ families. His acts of compassion and care have benefitted not only the staff and inmates, but the inmates’ families, as well. He is an example of the Samaritan spirit for the Chaplaincy Department, administration, security, volunteers and inmates. His presence positively impacts the lives of everyone he encounters.

Mr. Born is one of 17 individuals and 5 organizations 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 the lives of convicted offenders, and aiding and comforting their victims.

In FY2021, there were 21,310 volunteers who provided a total of 47,290 hours of service.

Note to media: For more information, contact Robert Hurst at (936) 437-6052 or by e-mail at robert_hurst@tdcj.texas.gov.