Congratulations to the 15 men were awarded certificates of completion for their participation and diligence to the Alpha program at the Omaha Correctional Center (OCC). Alpha is a series of sessions exploring the Christian faith, typically run over 11 weeks.

“I believe we are here because we want to change,” said graduate and small group leader Shawn Hutchison. “It doesn’t stop here.”

Each week, men meet in small groups and look at a different question focusing on faith. The program is designed to create positive conversation and openness.

As the men were presented their certificates, each shared their personal testimony of what the program has meant to them. They gave encouragement to each other.

“I’ve seen lives changed on the inside here through this fellowship,” said participant Ricky.

“We’ve all been in a place where you have to go through a journey,” said Alpha Nebraska Prison Coordinator Bob Holtrop, as he spoke to the graduates. “We want what we do here at Alpha to be who you are, not just something you did.”