A Path Toward Graduation at Crossroads ATC

Luis Robles never imagined he would one day be back in a classroom, just one exam away from earning his diploma. After more than a decade in custody, he found himself at Crossroads Adult Transition Center (ATC), determined to make the most of the time he had left. What began as a personal goal to finish his education quickly turned into a transformative journey that restored his confidence and gave him hope for the future.

Crossroads ATC, operated by Safer Foundation in partnership with the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC), is more than just a transitional facility. It is a place of growth, opportunity, and second chances. Luis is living proof of that.

From Doubt to Determination

Luis came to the United States with his parents when he was 13. He did not learn English until he was in prison, where he began picking it up through reading and speaking with those around him. He describes his early struggle with the language at the start of the program as one of his biggest hurdles. Sometimes I would get frustrated with myself. I didn’t understand some words, and it made me want to give up,” he shared.

Despite the challenge, he kept going, thanks to the encouragement of his teacher, Ms. Ford. “She believed in me, even when I didn’t believe in myself.”

Before joining the program, Luis had not finished high school. He started working at a young age and eventually became a father of nine. “I always worked hard and tried to be a good dad,” he said. But life took a turn, and Luis ended up incarcerated. “Sometimes you think you are only hurting yourself, but you are not. When you go through something like this, you realize you are also hurting the people who love you, my kids, my parents, my siblings.”

As he reflected on his life and began working toward his diploma, Luis shared, “I’m starting to gain a little confidence in myself. It is thanks to my teacher. She really helped me, and she believes in me. I just hope I do not disappoint her.”

Looking Ahead with Hope

Luis still has two and a half years left on his sentence, but he is already looking ahead. He wants to return to work as a mechanic to support his family and spend time with his grandchildren, moments he has missed during more than a decade in custody. That loss fuels his motivation to stay on track.

Today, Luis is just one exam away from earning his High School Equivalency Diploma. The HSE and Tutoring Program has helped him rebuild his confidence and recognize his potential. He is also exploring other programs offered by Safer Foundation at the ATCs, specifically solar panel installation, as he considers new ways to build a better future.

The Power of Second Chances

Luis’s story is one of resilience and growth. It also highlights the power of supportive programming inside facilities like Crossroads ATC. Through education, job readiness, and encouragement, Safer Foundation helps individuals prepare for a future rooted in hope, not judgment.

As Luis continues his journey, he carries the lessons he has learned, the people who have supported him, and the dream of being fully present for his family.

At Safer Foundation, we believe everyone deserves a second chance. Help us expand access to education and support by donating or becoming a reentry partner today.