TDCJ News

27th Annual Governor’s Criminal Justice Volunteer Service Awards

Chester Man Receives Governor’s Criminal Justice Volunteer Service Award

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

(AUSTIN) – Peter Peltier of Chester, Texas was presented the Restorative Justice 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. Peltier has served as a volunteer at the Gib Lewis Unit since March 2018. He serves with commitment, dedication and zeal. He volunteers in rehabilitative programs such as Bridges to Life, Kolbe Retreats, Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) and the Catholic Mass. He has a desire to help these men rehabilitate by rendering pastoral care and quality programming to facilitate spiritual transformation. His attention to details and a tenacious spirit is relentless in pursuing the ministry needs of these incarcerated men. Even a horrendous rainstorm cannot – and has not been able to – stop Mr. Peltier from showing up with care and a heart ready to minister. He is a true servant who has the interest of others in mind versus any recognition he may receive for his service. Mr. Peltier truly exalts the needs of others above his own needs.

Peter Peltier 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.