Giving Back

Okaloosa County designates April 2025 as ‘Second Chance Month’

Each year, approximately 687,102 individuals are released from incarceration into supervision in Florida, with their success depending on effective support from reentry service providers.

Ashley Armacost

Okaloosa County Commissioners have unanimously approved a proclamation designating April 2025 as “Second Chance Month” to support the reintegration of formerly incarcerated individuals into the community.

The initiative aims to help the hundreds of thousands of people released from incarceration in Florida each year by coordinating support from community stakeholders, faith-based organizations, and government agencies.

“It is important to recognize that most people who are incarcerated will be released back into the community,” said Okaloosa County Board Chairman Paul Mixon. “Okaloosa County remains committed to advocate for the successful reintegration of these individuals through a thoughtful and strategic collaboration with our community partners to ensure long-term public safety, reduce recidivism and save tax-payer dollars.”

Emerald Coast Life Center, Inc. works with incarcerated individuals within the Okaloosa County Department of Corrections in partnership with jail staff to support successful reentry.

Mixon highlighted the importance of these partnerships, saying, “We appreciate the tremendous partnership we have with Emerald Coast Life Center and all of our other partners, that work to promote education, vocation and workforce preparation for these individuals as they move beyond the criminal justice system into a stronger, healthier lifestyle.”

Join the conversation...Cancel reply

Continue reading 👇

Crab Island, Public Safety

Okaloosa County votes to remove Crab Island safety corridor citing maintenance costs and inefficiency

Parks+Rec

Okaloosa County approves $1M for Liza Jackson Park boat ramp renovation in Fort Walton Beach

Giving Back

Three Okaloosa leaders honored for mental health advocacy

Traffic

Okaloosa Commissioners support closure of dangerous US 98 intersection in Destin

Laura L Melendez commented on Fort Walton Beach approves next steps for Liza Jackson Boat Launch expansion plans

“I wish that they would also bring in fill dirt to raise the level of the entire park. The ground is always soggy and mushy. A lot of the soil...”

Respond

Ms. Rich commented on Okaloosa Tourism Director outlines potential impacts of proposed tourism tax bill

“Although HB 1221 passed the House on April 25, the Senate has Indefinitely Postponed it and withdrawn it from consideration as of May 3, 2025. The bill to watch is...”

Ron commented on Okaloosa approves purchase of old Red Lobster building in Fort Walton Beach

“3437 AUBURN Rd., CRESTVIEW, FL 32539”

Elizabeth Anne Gosnell commented on The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island donates over $10,500 to Rock by the Sea’s charitable mission

“Thank you coming out to Al's this morning! Rock by the Sea is ecstatic to be able to return to this beautiful coast and amazing venues next year! It's going...”

Amber commented on Destin’s Joe’s Bayou project timeline unveiled, construction expected to start September

“This would be nice to be dog friendly. As we have nowhere that is dog friendly. We have two parks and not one of them are dog friendly even on...”

David commented on Fitness, food and family: LiveOak Fiber supports five community events across Okaloosa County in May

“Do we need a Voucher to go to the tailfins brunch in the morning? Where do we get a voucher? We are live oak customers”

Karyn Kuhl commented on Pounders Hawaiian Grill eyes expansion into Fort Walton Beach with third location

“We're glad you finally opened in Fort Walton Beach! Welcome! Now you need a bigger parking lot!”

RedDiver commented on Sandos Beachside brings coffee, sandwiches with chips on top, and cocktails to Destin

“Including the menu with the article - most excellent!”

Dwayne commented on Okaloosa Tourism Director outlines potential impacts of proposed tourism tax bill

“Yeah this is a great idea for one it will help the home owners along with keeping a great ship afloat”

Helen Rigdon commented on Eight women to be honored in Okaloosa County Hall of Fame

“Sure glad to see Shawna and Judge Lacey As an Inductee. Watched them from an early age as they have become outstanding young women. They have contributed tremendously To Okaloosa...”