Second Chance Month
April is National Second Chance Month — a moment to recognize the importance of helping individuals safely and successfully return to their communities after incarceration. Across the country, people and organizations are stepping up to support second chances. Here in Prince George’s County, we don’t just step up — we lead.
While we proudly take part in National Second Chance Month, our work to support returning citizens goes far beyond these 30 days. Year-round, we invest in innovative, person-centered programs that open doors, break cycles, and build stronger communities from the inside out.
Through our Returning Citizen Affairs Division (RCAD), we’ve made Prince George’s County a model for what reentry support should look like — comprehensive, compassionate, and driven by outcomes. We connect returning citizens with the resources, training, and services they need to rebuild their lives, support their families, and contribute to our community.
Earlier this month, we launched The Welcome Home Project in partnership with Prince George’s Community College, Employ Prince George’s, and Training Grounds, Inc. This groundbreaking initiative is designed for individuals who have served five or more years and were released within the past 18 months. It’s more than workforce training — it’s a full-service, tuition-free certification experience that includes stipends, wraparound support, and a direct path to long-term employment. Welcome Home reflects our belief that everyone deserves a real shot at stability and success — and we’re willing to put the work in to make that happen.
We are also marking this month with a series of events led by RCAD, including our third annual Returning Citizens Summit, held this past Saturday at Martin’s Crosswinds in Greenbelt. The summit brought together residents, advocates, and service providers for powerful conversations and workshops focused on the journey home and the systems that can either support or block that progress.
In Prince George’s County, second chances aren’t just slogans — they are serious commitments. We believe that redemption is possible, that transformation is real, and that a community is only as strong as the support it gives to those returning home.
Tara H. Jackson
Acting Prince George’s County Executive
The Ultimate HBCU Experience
 The Department of Parks and Recreation is hosting “The Ultimate HBCU Experience" on Saturday, April 26, at 10:00 AM. This event will celebrate the culture, traditions, and academic excellence of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and will feature live performances, step shows, panel discussions, and networking opportunities.
Whether you are a prospective student, an alum, or just looking to immerse yourself in an exciting celebration of Black excellence, this event is for you. Learn more information and register here.
Kinderfest
Join the Department of Parks and Recreation at Kinderfest, a beloved annual festival filled with fun, laughter, and unforgettable memories on Saturday, April 26, from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM! This festival includes carnival rides, games, live entertainment, arts & crafts, and delicious food. Mark your calendar now and get ready for a day of joy at this family-friendly celebration! Learn more information here.
Annual Montpelier Festival of Herbs, Tea, and the Arts
 Welcome in Spring at the beloved Montpelier Festival of Herbs, Tea, and the Arts on Saturday, April 26, at 10:00 AM! The Department of Parks and Recreation is hosting this free family-friendly event that features local vendors, hands-on craft activities, plant and herb sales, fine arts and musical performances on the beautiful grounds of the Montpelier House Museum. Whether you are a tea lover, garden enthusiast, or simply enjoy a festive outdoor experience, there is something for everyone. To learn more information, visit here.
Celebrate Earth Day with PGCMLS
In celebration of Earth Day, the Prince George’s County Memorial Library System (PGMCLS) is hosting a series of engaging programs designed to help the community explore science through hands-on learning and demonstration.
On Wednesday, April 23, at 5:00 PM, youth are invited to join partners at the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center to discover how the Sun interacts with Earth through interactive activities – including constructing a solar powered house. Register here.
On Friday, April 25, at 4:00 PM, the “Meet the Honeybee” program, presented by the Department of Parks and Recreation, will introduce attendees of all ages to the vital role honeybees play in pollution and local ecosystems. Register here.
Vision Zero Survey
 The Vision Zero team at the Department of Public Works and Transportation (DPW&T) is conducting a Public Input Survey through June 2025. This survey allows residents to share their thoughts and feedback on road safety in the County, helping shape the future of our infrastructure. As the County works on an updated Vision Zero Action & Implementation Plan, we encourage you to get involved and have your voice heard. Learn more information and complete the survey
Rio Grande Entrepreneurs Program
Join the Office of the County Executive’s Latino Affairs for the Rio Grande Entrepreneurs Program, a 4-day intensive training designed to empower Latino business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs. The program will run from Tuesday, April 22 to Friday, April 25, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the Dukes Student Center at Prince George’s Community College.
Learn leadership, business planning, human resources, accounting, financial management, and more at this free event!
Don't miss this opportunity to gain essential business skills and build your network.
Learn more and register here.
The Power of Being Green Earth Month Video Series
The Department of Environmental (DoE) celebrates Earth Month throughout April by promoting and educating communities about the "Power of Being Green,” featuring programs and services from our four dynamic divisions: Animal Services, Sustainability, Stormwater Management, and Resource Recovery.
Earth Month Household Hazardous Waste and Electronics Recycling Mobile Event
The Department of Environmental (DoE) invites residents to properly dispose of your household hazardous waste and unused electronics at the upcoming mobile drop-off event at Friendly High School on Saturday, April 26 at 8:00 AM.
Learn more information and view the list of acceptable items for electronics recycling and household hazardous waste here.
Oxon Cove Trail Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
Join the Town of Forest Heights on Saturday, April 26, at 11:30 AM for the official ribbon cutting and reopening of the Oxon Cove Trail! The National Park Service, the Town of Forest Heights and Potomac Riverkeeper invite residents to gather at the bridge along the Oxon Cove Trail, to connect the community of Forest Heights to the trail and provide a smoother, more scenic experience for all.
Enjoy performances from the Forest Heights Elementary School choir and hear from local leaders while we commemorate such a large achievement.
Fort Foote Elementary Principal Honored with National Leadership Award
Photo courtesy of PGCPS
We are Prince George’s Proud of Fort Foote Elementary School Principal Dr. Ryan Daniel, who has been named a National Distinguished Principal by the Maryland Association of Elementary School Principals. Honored in a special ceremony on April 11, Dr. Daniel was recognized for her exceptional leadership and commitment to student success. Under her guidance, Fort Foote has cultivated a strong, equity-focused school culture and significantly closed the achievement gap for English Language Learners. A proud Prince George’s County School alumna and national education leader, Dr. Daniel continues to inspire through her dedication to empowering students, families, and educators. Join us in congratulating Dr. Daniel!
Welcome Home Veterans: Living Accommodations
Our Veterans Affairs Liaison, Dr. Dula, and Air Force Veteran, Kim Latimer, have partnered to provide individual living accommodations at the Beyond 4 Walls facility in Clinton.
Our Office of Veterans Affairs (OVA) is Prince George’s Proud to work with partners dedicated to serving veterans and families in need of housing and other quality of life needs.
The OVA is open Monday through Friday to serve the veterans community. For more information, call the OVA Military Veteran and Families Resource Center in Upper Marlboro at 301-952-3904.
 On Saturday, April 12, the Oxon Hill Branch Library ran a special National Poetry Month program hosted by local poetry group Collective Voices, featuring djembe musician Doc Powell, and former Maryland Poet Laureate Grace Cavalieri as the afternoon’s Poet of Distinction. The program featured recitations by Collective Voice members, followed by a series of stories and readings by Grace Cavalieri.
Fire Department Partners with Veterans Affairs to Recruit Local Heroes
Our Veterans Affairs Liaison, Dr. Dula, met with Prince George’s County Fire Chief Tiffany Green to discuss collaborative efforts to raise awareness within the veteran community about recruitment opportunities in the Fire Department. The veteran community comprises a community of patriotic heroes dedicated to serving at all levels of government, and we are extremely happy to assist our Fire Department by notifying men and women of the great benefit of continuous service as a firefighter in Prince George’s County.
Welcome Home Project Launch
 Acting County Executive Jackson celebrated Second Chance Awareness Month and officially launched the Welcome Home Project, an innovative workforce development initiative designed to support returning citizens, in Camp Springs on Monday, April 7. This initiative highlights the County’s commitment to reducing recidivism, fostering community strength, and empowering individuals through education and employment opportunities.
Grand Opening of the Police Forensics Laboratory in Landover
 Acting County Executive Jackson attended the grand opening of the Forensics Laboratory in Landover on Tuesday, April 8. This new facility brings together all the Police George’s County Police Department forensic labs in one location, including the DNA/Serology Laboratory, the Drug Analysis Laboratory, the Firearms Examination Unit, the Regional Automated Fingerprint Identification System (RAFIS) and the property warehouse. The new facility will accommodate the continuing growth in forensic analysis that enhances the Police Department's ability to reduce violent crime.
Civic Plaza Ceremonial Groundbreaking
 Acting County Executive Jackson attended the ceremonial groundbreaking for the Civic Plaza at the Wayne K. Curry Administration Building in Largo on Wednesday, April 9. This is the first of five signature Blue Line Corridor projects funded through the State of Maryland to break ground. The goal for this space is to cultivate a dynamic hub for residents and visitors alike that fosters a sense of community connection right in the heart of Largo that is walkable and bikeable.
Cheonan City Delegation Visit
 Acting County Executive Jackson had a meet and greet with Kim Seog-pil, the Deputy Mayor of Cheonan, and their four-member delegation from Cheonan in South Korea on Tuesday, April 15. This meeting strengthened the relationship between Prince George's County officials and the Cheonan City delegation, explored potential areas for collaboration and partnership, and facilitated a productive dialogue on economic development opportunities.
Justice Forum
 Acting County Executive Jackson delivered remarks at the Justice Forum, "Next Steps: Navigating the Constitutional Crisis and Threats to Our Democracy," held on Thursday, April 17, at First Baptist Church of Highland Park. The forum focused on the current state of our democracy and explored actionable steps for addressing the crisis. Jackson's administration is committed to ensuring that all residents, regardless of immigration status, are treated fairly and justly.
MBIA Legislative Breakfast
 Acting County Executive Jackson delivered remarks at the Maryland Building Industry Association (MBIA) Prince George's Legislative Breakfast on Friday April 18, at the Hotel at the University of Maryland. The event served as a key engagement opportunity, connecting community builders with elected officials and department leadership. It provided industry stakeholders with a platform to directly stakeholders with a platform to directly discuss priority issues with the County Executive's Office, Council Members, and relevant County staff.
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