TDCJ News

28th Annual Governor’s Criminal Justice Volunteer Service Awards

San Antonio Man Receives Governor’s Criminal Justice Volunteer Service Award

TBCJ Chairman Patrick O'Daniel, Chaplain Michael McCombs accepting award for James Nelson, Texas First Lady Cecilia Abbott, and TDCJ Executive Director Bryan Collier.

(AUSTIN) – James Nelson of San Antonio, Texas, was presented the Religious Service Award during the Governor’s 2023 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 award recipients, by volunteering countless hours, are helping to build a better Texas for themselves and everyone whose lives they touch,” said O’Daniel. “It is an honor to recognize them for their hard work and dedication.”

“It takes a very special kind of person to give of their time and expect no material reward,” said Collier. “These volunteers are invaluable to us and have made a lasting impact through their contributions to the public safety of all Texans.”

Mr. Nelson has been a faithful volunteer since 2017. During this time, he graciously agreed to begin leading the Dave Ramsey Financial Peace University classes for the Faith Based Dorm. His vast experience and knowledge in accounting and money management have been a great blessing to the men in his classes. He is experienced and knowledgeable of the curriculum and can impart a great deal of information and counsel to the inmates he serves, giving them the opportunity for greater chances of a successful transition back into society after incarceration. In addition to leading classes, he has made generous donations to the facility to include Christmas gift bags and a large-screen TV, complete with a DVD player and a sound bar. This system was used daily during COVID-19 restrictions for the purpose of showing the worship DVDs provided by the Chaplaincy Department. His genuine care for the incarcerated is evident in his desire to give and be a blessing to the inmate population.

Mr. Nelson is one of 23 individuals and 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 inmates while aiding and comforting their victims.

In FY2022, there were 23,376 volunteers who provided a total of 146,649 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.