PACE History

PACE (Proper Self Esteem, Academics, Character, and Employment) was founded in 2000 out of a desire to help kids recently released from juvenile detention effectively reintegrate into society. PACE is the brainchild of Steven Holloway ; a former cocaine addict now converted husband and father of five girls who is committed to giving delinquent youth a support system he did not have.

The first PACE class began on January 3, 2001 with 7 youth and 10 volunteers. In 2002 the Texas Youth Commission took note of the program's success and a partnership between PACE and TYC was formed. The partnership continues today. In January 2004, Harris County Juvenile Probation became partners of the program.

Additionally, PACE has received recognition from Governor Rick Perry as the recipient of the Governor's Award in 2003. Further, PACE received the Education Award from the Houston/Harris County Ecumenical Council in 2002, and a letter of recognition from President George Bush (2002). PACE boasts a successful reduction in the recidivism rate for youth who completed the program in its entirety.

• 334 juveniles have enrolled since Jan 3,2001
• 282 youth successfully completed program
• 155 Parents 67 Siblings
• 46 Rearrested or Reincarcerated since April 26,2001
• $59,479.26 per child per year-minimum stay 22.4m
• Tax payers would have spent over $10 million
• 90% were boys.
• 10% were girls.
• 44% were Hispanic.
• 35% were African-American.
• 20% were Anglo.
• Median age at commitment was 16.
• Median reading & math achievement level was 5th grade (five years behind their peers).