Mr. Cedric Jordan
Vice President
About the work
We believe a past can be real without being the whole story.
Prison to Purpose is a faith-based nonprofit helping returning citizens reconnect with themselves, their families, their work, and their purpose.
Our north star
Retraining minds. Realizing purposes. Strengthening communities.
Faith
We believe spiritual growth can help make lasting change possible.
Hope
We make room for a future that is bigger than a person’s past.
Community
We build the relationships that help progress hold after the program ends.
Dignity
We treat every person as someone with worth, agency, and something to contribute.
Our Founder
Jerars Canada
Founder & Executive Director
I am a Senior Human Resources Specialist by trade, with a career in staffing, recruitment, training, and development. I hold a Bachelor's Degree in Business Management from the University of Alabama (Roll Tide!) and a Master's Degree in Human Resources Management from Keller Graduate School.
I am also a Life Mentor and a proud member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated. Over 20 years in the people business, I've learned that having a heart for people's success is the key to my real happiness. My heart desires to help people grow and be the best versions of themselves.
In obedience to my heart, I was led to volunteer in prison ministry in 2016 at an all-male federal correctional institution, facilitating a 13-week class on the subjects necessary to rehabilitate thought processes and position participants for success upon release. In 2017 I was the keynote speaker for the September graduating class, then moved to Lew Sterrett in Dallas to teach similar classes for women. Working inside the prison wasn't enough for those being newly released — and that's where Prison to Purpose was born.
Connect with Our Founder
Jerars Canada is available to speak about Prison to Purpose's mission and the importance of supporting formerly incarcerated individuals.
The people behind the purpose
Our Board of Directors
Meet the dedicated leaders committed to empowering individuals transitioning from prison in pursuit of their purpose.
Ms. Denita Branch
Secretary of the Board
Mrs. Stacy Golden
Treasurer
Ms. Della Sapp
Director of Events and Fundraising
Ms. Makea Sanders
Director of Mental Health
Ms. Tangela H. Joseph
Chaplain
Want to help make this work possible? Find your place in the work
Find your way in
There is a place for your next step.
Register for the program, volunteer, connect us with an employer, or simply ask a question. We would be glad to hear from you.
Where we serve
Tarrant County, Texas
Our current sessions are held Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:00–8:00 PM. We are working toward expanding to Dallas County and serving more of the region.