Montgomery, AL — Kay Ivey has announced the award of three grants totaling $194,941 to support programs aimed at reducing crime and recidivism through drug treatment, mentoring, and life skills training across multiple Alabama communities, including efforts that will directly impact Calhoun County.
Two organizations received the largest portions of the funding, with $75,000 each awarded to the RCA Foundation and Extended Family. A third grant of $44,941 was awarded to Tuscaloosa’s One Place.
While the RCA Foundation focuses on providing substance abuse treatment for individuals involved in drug court and referral programs in several counties, the Extended Family organization has a more direct connection to Calhoun County. Based in Centre, Extended Family offers support and guidance to at-risk youth across Calhoun, Cherokee, DeKalb, and Etowah counties. Its programming includes job readiness training, communication skills, and health education, particularly for children with incarcerated family members.
“These programs steer people away from criminal activities and toward healthier and more productive lifestyles,” Ivey said in announcing the grants. “I am pleased to award these funds supporting initiatives to reduce crime and drug abuse in our communities.”
The funding is expected to strengthen ongoing efforts in Calhoun County by expanding access to mentorship and life skills development for youth who may be at higher risk of entering the criminal justice system. Local leaders and service providers have increasingly emphasized early intervention and support services as key strategies in reducing long-term crime rates.
Tuscaloosa’s One Place will use its grant to support its Empowering Youth for Success – 2nd Chance program, which focuses on mentoring and workforce training for youth with repeated involvement in the juvenile justice system.
The grants are being administered by the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs using funds provided through the U.S. Department of Justice. ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said the agency supports initiatives that contribute to safer communities statewide.
The funding reflects a broader statewide effort to address crime prevention through rehabilitation, education, and support services—an approach that community organizations in Calhoun County are expected to continue building upon with the additional resources.
