Mission Efforts Recognized by the State
The exceptional mission and outreach efforts of St. James on the Lake volunteer Bill Shehee, and the non-profit group One Man’s Treasure was recognized by the state of Texas during the Governor’s 2016 Criminal Justice Volunteer Service Award program.
Shehee was presented the prestigious Carol S. Vance Volunteer Service Award for his work with prison ministry.
A Dallas police officer of 31 years, Mr. Shehee now leads the medium custody faith community at the Beto Unit near Palestine. Active in Kairos, as well as the Care Program, he believes that everyone needs hope and that many offenders, especially those in medium custody, can lose that hope if they are not taught how to sustain and grow. His activity level is phenomenal and every program that he participates in promotes positive change in offender-behavior through spiritual formation.
“Volunteering is not a choice for the men and women being recognized today,” said Dale Wainwright, Texas Board of Criminal Justice Chairman. “They see it as a responsibility and for that we’re thankful."
One Man’s Treasure was presented the Reentry and Integration Division Award for its ministry that provides men who are recently released from prison with clothing and networking opportunities. More than 6,500 men have received clothing from One’s Man’s Treasure, since it was founded in 2005.
“The unwavering dedication of these volunteers to help others succeed is truly inspiring,” said Brad Livingston, executive director of the Texas Board of Criminal Justice.