TDCJ News

28th Annual Governor’s Criminal Justice Volunteer Service Awards

Garland Man Receives Governor’s Criminal Justice Volunteer Service Award

TBCJ Chairman Patrick O'Daniel, Ronald Edwards, Texas First Lady Cecilia Abbott, and TDCJ Executive Director Bryan Collier.

(AUSTIN) – Ronald Edwards of Garland, 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 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.”

Ronald Edwards has been a faithful volunteer since 2009 at the Hutchins State Jail where he teaches the Voyager program in the Faith Based Dorm, as well as in the general population. He has also offered his services for almost three years at the Henry Wade Juvenile Center, later becoming a Voluntary Chaplain. His commitment to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice Chaplaincy Department is impressive. He always has a positive attitude with a smile and a determination that is contagious to everyone who meets him. He is an example of dedication along with an incredible resolve to be a blessing to all the inmates who are enrolled in Voyager.

Mr. Edwards is one of 23 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.