For John—known to many as “Preacher”—a fair chance isn’t just about opportunity. It’s about humanity, healing, and the power of transformation. After 13 years of incarceration, Preacher emerged with a mission: to turn his lived experience into a source of hope, guidance, and leadership for others.
Today, he serves as both a peer recovery coach and a spiritual mentor, walking alongside justice-impacted individuals and active-duty service members alike. His life is living proof that no past is too broken to build a future of purpose, compassion, and impact. His journey stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit—and a call for communities to believe in the true power of second chances.
When asked what the term fair chances means to him personally, Preacher reflects on redemption, growth, and transformation at the deepest level.
“To me, the term ‘fair chances’ symbolizes the profound belief in redemption, growth, and the resilience of the human spirit. It is an acknowledgment that none of us are immune to imperfection, and that life’s journey is marked not by the absence of mistakes, but by our willingness to learn from them and strive for transformation.”
For Preacher, a fair chance isn’t about erasing the past—it’s about honoring the courage required to grow beyond it.
Turning Lived Experience Into A Calling
Since his release, Preacher’s greatest source of pride is the way he has transformed his story into service for others.
“The accomplishment I am most proud of since my release is the ability to transform my story and lived experience, shaped by the challenges of incarceration, into a source of guidance and support for others.”
As a peer recovery coach, his work is deeply personal.
“As a peer recovery coach, it has been an honor to use my journey to connect with clients on a profound level, offering them hope, understanding, and encouragement on their own paths to recovery.”
His impact doesn’t stop there.
“Additionally, extending this support to active-duty servicemen and women has been especially meaningful, as it allows me to serve those who dedicate their lives to protecting and serving others.”
For Preacher, this work is more than a job—it is purpose in motion.
“This work is not just a reflection of my growth but a testament to the strength of resilience, proving that even the most difficult chapters of life can be transformed into a foundation for purpose and impact.”
The Power Of One Opportunity
After 13 years of incarceration, the opportunities Preacher was given carried extraordinary meaning.
“That’s an easy one. Coming out of 13-years of incarceration, into a job as a Travel Advisor, as well as a Peer Recovery Coach with a great family-oriented vibe for coaches and clients.”
But one moment stands out as especially powerful.
“Having the opportunity to meet with and conversate with my judge over lunch and speaking to the women and men who are serving this nation in uniform.”
These moments reflect what Breakthrough believes deeply: that dignity, trust, and access can reshape an entire life.
Seeing the Humanity In Reentry
When Preacher speaks about reentry, his words echo with compassion, truth, and lived understanding.
“What I wish more people understood about those reentering society is the profound transformation that such a journey represents.”
For him, reentry is not a single moment—it is an act of courage.
“Reentry is not merely the act of leaving incarceration behind; it is the courageous endeavor to rebuild a life from fragments, often amidst the shadows of stigma and misunderstanding.”
He challenges the world to look deeper.
“Those reentering society carry with them not just the scars of their experiences, but also a wealth of hard-won wisdom, resilience, and an unyielding determination to contribute meaningfully to the world around them.”
And ultimately, he calls for compassion to lead the way.
“Compassion and understanding are not just acts of charity; they are the foundations of a society that believes in redemption, in the ability of individuals to write new narratives for their lives.”
Preacher believes communities hold enormous power in shaping successful reentry—and preventing return to incarceration.
“Communities have a profound role to play in supporting individuals returning from incarceration, and their efforts can truly make the difference between reintegration and recidivism.”
He begins with acceptance.
“First and foremost, fostering an environment of acceptance is crucial. Individuals reentering society should be met with compassion and understanding, rather than stigma.”
And he emphasizes the need for tangible support.
“Providing access to housing, employment opportunities, education, and mental health services forms the foundation for successful reentry.”
But he also calls for something bigger: collective responsibility.
“Ultimately, supporting reentry is not just an act of service to those individuals—it is an investment in a healthier, more inclusive community, where every story has the potential for transformation and hope.”
Growth, Balance, and Purpose After Release
When asked again what he is most proud of since his release, Preacher reflects on the inner work that sustains his outward impact.
“My journey has been defined by resilience and unwavering focus, allowing me to remain true to myself while nurturing my ability to care deeply for others.”
For him, growth requires intention.
“Through intentional focus, I have made it a point to center my energy on my future goals and aspirations, striving toward the milestones I am determined to achieve.”
This balance—between self-care and service—anchors his leadership.
“This dual focus—on both personal well-being and purposeful ambition—not only reflects my dedication to growth, but also underscores my resolve to lead a meaningful, impactful life.”
A Message to Those Hesitant About Second Chances
To those who struggle to offer second chances, Preacher offers both challenge and hope.
“To those who may be hesitant to extend a second chance to justice-impacted individuals, I urge you to consider the transformative power of opportunity and belief in human potential.”
He reminds us that every record holds a story.
“Behind every individual impacted by the justice system is a story—a narrative often filled with hardship, redemption, and a deep desire to rise above the past.”
And he makes the case for why second chances matter to everyone.
“A fair chance is not merely an act of compassion; it is an investment in the growth and contributions of someone who has endured and emerged stronger.”
His closing truth speaks directly to the heart of Breakthrough’s mission:
“True progress is achieved when we choose to see potential rather than limitations—when we create spaces where transformation is encouraged, and where every individual has the opportunity to prove that they are more than their past.”
