TDCJ News

27th Annual Governor’s Criminal Justice Volunteer Service Awards

North Zulch Woman Receives Governor’s Criminal Justice Volunteer Service Award

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

(AUSTIN) – Monica Marks of North Zulch, Texas was presented the TDCJ Employee Volunteer 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.

Mrs. Marks is a dedicated employee of the Rehabilitation Programs Division who has more than twenty years of state service, which includes more than ten years with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. She has been volunteering with the KAIROS ministry at the Hobby Unit since 2019. She is a vital part of KAIROS and faithfully volunteers any time she is available. Monica lights up whenever she has the chance to serve. As she prepares for speeches she gives to her “ladies in white”, she not only prepares the words but sometimes prepares her wardrobe to match. “Flawed and (Still) Worthy” was a perfect speech for her participants at the Hobby Unit. In Monica’s words, “I’m on fire inside! God answered my prayers and I will let my light shine bright to those ladies.”

Mrs. Marks 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.