TDCJ News

27th Annual Governor’s Criminal Justice Volunteer Service Awards

Dallas Man Receives Governor’s Criminal Justice Volunteer Service Award

TDCJ Executive Director Bryan Collier, Mannie Jefferson, Texas First Lady Cecilia Abbott, and TBCJ Chairman Patrick O'Daniel (l-r).

(AUSTIN) – Mannie Jefferson of Dallas, Texas was presented the Nancy Hees 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.

The award is named in recognition of Nancy Hees who passed away in February 2005 after a courageous battle with cancer. Nancy, a TDCJ employee at the time of her death, worked in the Parole Division admirably for more than 14 years. Her dynamic character and devotion to helping others positively influenced the lives of many parolees and their families. Her heartfelt compassion and generosity built a bridge of communication between parolees and the agency’s administration and established the Division’s Ombudsman’s Office as a reliable information resource for offender families.

Mr. Jefferson facilitates the Overcomers faith-based substance use classes in the Dallas District Re-Entry Center and has touched the lives of many clients and staff. He has proven to be compassionate, caring and dependable. His selfless generosity enables seamless and continued substance abuse services to clients in need, serving to mitigate relapse and recidivism, all while fostering effective reintegration. He often humbly states he volunteers his time to clients so that they may have an opportunity to know a better way. Not only did he remain active during the COVID-19 pandemic, he also made special accommodations so those in need would continue to receive critical services and support. He is often seen after class speaking with clients and offering his continued support. He is also active in the community, volunteering in various projects and youth intervention. He enjoys mentoring to youth and devoting his time to encourage others.

Mr. Jefferson 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.