Dozens at Bradenton Bridge Earn Certificates
Women complete GEDs, Culinary Training and computer competency in preparation for a return to the community
Nearly three months ago state budget woes threatened a program designed to keep nearly 100 local women out of prison. But this week 82 women — all non-violent offenders — are celebrating the completion of educational, professional and life skills programs that bring them closer to becoming successful members of the community. Trina Vaughn, a 36-year-old grandmother, is among those women. She will receive her GED at Thursday’s ceremony. Vaughn ran away from home at 14 and dropped out of school. She had her first child a year later. By the time she was 21 she had four children. Vaughn began attending night school when she was 23. She worked days and went to school at night, but then was convicted of drug trafficking and went to prison for …
