Reformed criminal speaks at WVCF for Black History Month

Carlos Christian/ WVCF photo

Wabash Valley Correctional Facility 

CARLISLE – Recently, Carlos Christian, an ex-offender who served 10 years in the Marion Correctional Institution in Marion, Ohio for drug - related charges, spoke to offenders and staff at the Wabash Valley Correctional Facility (WVCF.)

Christian shared his struggle with resisting a life of crime and gave practical advice on how others could do the same.

During his incarceration, he graduated as a business major from Marion Technical College and also completed an Administrative Office Technology program. Christian founded the "Starts Within" organization upon his release from incarceration. The organization focuses on having “a victorious mindset” and is geared towards helping incarcerated individuals find the best version of themselves.  

WVCF Community Services Director J. Storm stated the following when asked about the presentation, “Carlos always brings a special energy when he visits the facility that engages everyone. His own personal story of success and how he has overcome adversity is very inspiring. He is proof that if you want a productive life, you have to start right now, making the right choices inside or outside of incarceration. This brings hope and inspiration to the offenders seeking a path to a more successful re-entry.”

​