The state program is in its third month at Heritage Trail -- formerly known as the Plainfield Correctional Facility. It includes character and faith-based programs and relies heavily on volunteers and mentors -- many who have been repeat offenders themselves.
"I want Indiana to be the worst place in America to commit a serious crime. But, I want Indiana, once you've done your time, to be the best place to get a second chance," Gov. Mike Pence said.
During an announcement last fall, Pence indicated he wants the Heritage Trail Correctional Facility to be a place of hope.
Two-hundred inmates are now part of the program for first-time offenders. The cornerstone is a class called "Thinking for a Change."
"It gives you a perspective of thinking about what you've done, and how you got into that situation as compared to what you could've done and thought about it in a different way," Fred Young said.
Young has had time to think. He landed back in prison in August after violating his probation. But he’s committed to making sure it doesn’t happen again.
"I can't wait to see what I can do once I get out of here," Young said.
He credited his mentor for helping him to change his attitude.
"We constantly encourage guys to look within yourself because you are first a man, and there's something in you that can be different. You can change. We all can change," Reginald Smith said.
Smith is serving the last half of his sentence at Heritage Trail. He found himself behind bars after a drug relapse.
Smith understands how one bad decision can change a person’s life. That’s why he’s using his experience to encourage others from following a similar path.
The program is specifically for low or medium-risk inmates. Addiction counseling, education and employment training are all part of the program.
Staff members plan to measure the results by following up with the men once they are released from prison.
