Darryl Johnson is a proud NPEP student from the Southeast side of Chicago. Darryl is expected to graduate with his bachelor’s degree in social science from Northwestern University in 2027.
In 1996, Darryl was sent to prison at the age of 15 years old. While in prison, Darryl received his G.E.D., attended Lake Land College where Darryl received an associate degree. Darryl also took several restorative justice classes: Lifestyle Redirection – Anger Management – Inside Outside Dads -Self Esteem Group – Beyond Criminal Thinking -Interpersonal Relationships –and A. C. E’s.
Darryl also enrolled into Vocational Programs and received Certificates in Construction Occupations.
After completing all the above, Darryl applied to Northwestern University and was accepted. Darryl was released from prison after 27 years, before he could start taking any classes at N.P.E.P. Darryl ended up homeless and living in a halfway house. Despite the struggles of being homeless and released from prison into a completely different world, Darryl has excelled. Darryl still takes classes at N.P.E.P and is doing great. Darryl works as the Outreach Coordinator for Challenge II Change, a non-profit dedicated to offering reentry planning and resources needed for successful transitions back into communities. Darryl also mentors’ youth as Outreach Coordinator.