Okaloosa County Proclaims April 2025 as ‘Second Chance Month’

Okaloosa County, Florida – In an effort to support the successful reintegration of individuals back into the community following incarceration, Okaloosa County Commissioners unanimously passed a proclamation designating April 2025 as “Second Chance Month.”

Each year, about 687,102 individuals are released from incarceration into supervision in Florida. Their success following their time in criminal justice facilities depends on effective support by reentry service providers from community stakeholders, faith-based organizations and local and state 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. is an organization that works daily with incarcerated individuals within the Okaloosa County Department of Corrections in partnership with jail staff to support successful reentry into the community.

“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 and into a stronger, healthier lifestyle,” said Chairman Mixon.  


Photo Caption: This 2024 image shows individuals at the Okaloosa County Jail who completed Phase I of the “Anchored” program that is administered by the Emerald Coast Life Center to break the cycle of recidivism and substance abuse.