In this latest video featuring Extended Family programs, Reentry Coordinator Jerry Clemons describes Extended Success for Life (ESL) and why this program inspires him. Jerry uses his personal experience as a former inmate who spent six years in an Alabama state penitentiary to help set a path for other men as they rebuild their lives after prison.
ESL is a free program which helps men to Dream, Learn, and Live through a twenty-week series of lessons uniquely tailored to meet the individual needs of the Returned Citizen (RC). Watch the video on our website, www.extendedfamilyhelp.org.
Participants in the ESL program begin to Dream by identifying and setting realistic, meaningful goals. These initial lessons focus on helping RCs imagine a new future built on purpose and personal growth.
The second phase of ESL encourages each RC to Learn the practical and emotional skills needed to achieve their goals. Through interactive lessons and activities, participants uncover their own strengths, develop new talents, and build coping strategies to manage stress and emotions in productive, non-destructive ways.
In the final stage, Live, participants are challenged to apply what they’ve learned. Through Jerry’s mentoring, RCs receive individualized tools and encouragement to put their plans into action. This vital step focuses on accountability, resilience, and real-world success, helping RCs build the confidence and discipline needed to stay on track.
This project was supported by Subaward #2025-DJ-02-137 awarded by the Law Enforcement and Traffic Safety Division of ADECA and the U.S. Department of Justice. Extended Success for Life is open to men referred by judges, probation and parole officers, other agencies, or through self-referral. For more information, email Jerry Clemons, jerry@extendedfamilyhelp.org or call 256-927-7997.