Excelling at Joseph House

Three years ago, in November 2021, I was released from Santa Rosa CI. I remember that day like it was just three days ago. I recall having nothing to do except sit down and talk with my new family - Father Dustin, Rachel, and our intern, Aaliyah. All I could do was talk. I had so much time, yet nothing to do except relearn the beginning stages of life, as if I were an infant.

Now, as 2024 comes to an end, I reflect on this amazing year and how much I've grown. I've become deeply rooted in the Joseph House, its mission, and the vision we share for the future. I see so much more ahead - especially in helping our brothers as they reenter society. One major step forward has been the partnership between Imperial Deep Cleaning Service and Joseph House, which provides jobs to those returning from incarceration.

This year was packed with speaking engagements, including numerous appearances at churches such as Good Shepherd, St. Rita's, the Co-Cathedral of St. Thomas More, and St. John Paul II. I was also honored to speak at the Florida Public Defenders Association's Annual Conference. This gave me the opportunity to spread the word about the incredible work Joseph House does in helping men successfully transition back into society.

My book club flourished this year, reading more books than ever before and growing in attendance. Another major milestone was the opening of a second Joseph House in the spring - one of our biggest accomplishments yet. I continue working hard to ensure that every man who comes here experiences a transition as beautiful, peaceful, and smooth as mine.

One of the most meaningful moments of this year was being approved to help personally bring our brothers home. Now, when men are released, Father Dustin and I drive - north, south, wherever they are - to pick them up and bring them to Joseph House. We've even started a tradition: each new arrival takes a picture with us beside a tree - our "Tree of Life" - as a symbol of freedom and new beginnings.

As I mentioned earlier, I run a book club, and this year was our best yet. We ended on a book that felt like a World Series game - bottom of the ninth, full count, and a home run soaring over the upper deck. That book was Tattoos on the Heart by Father Gregory Boyle. When I selected it, I had no idea how deeply it would impact me, the Joseph House, or even the wider Tallahassee community.

The Joseph House Gala this year was our biggest and most extraordinary event to date. With Father Gregory Boyle, Andra', Daniel, Father Dustin, Roger, Almira, and myself hosting, we created a night that will be remembered for decades to come. It was a moment that solidified the Joseph House as something truly remarkable - a place of transformation, hope, and second chances.