RDS Diversion Graduation

by Brena Robinson

On Friday, April 24th, Restoration Diversion Services (RDS) proudly hosted its Diversion Program Graduation, a powerful and heartfelt celebration honoring the resilience, growth, and accomplishments of program participants. The event brought together graduates, their families, community members, and the dedicated
The RDS team has supported each individual throughout their journey.

The graduation included RDS participants who successfully completed the diversion program, alongside staff members, case managers, board members, and leadership. Family members and loved ones were present to celebrate, offering encouragement and witnessing each graduate’s transformation.

The Mayor of Compton, Emma Sharif, attended and offered powerful, affirming words about the graduates’ resilience, growth, and future potential. Deatra Handy, the Program Director of RDS, led the event and provided opening and guiding remarks that grounded the celebration in purpose and pride.

Spiritual leadership was provided by Pastor Oliver Buie, who delivered the invocation, and Abel Prudhomme, who closed the ceremony in prayer. Community partners and supporters were also present, reinforcing the collective effort behind each participant’s success.

The RDS Diversion Graduation was held to recognize participants who have completed a structured program focused on personal development, accountability, healing, and redirection. The purpose of the event was not only to celebrate completion, but to affirm each participant’s commitment to growth, stability, and a
renewed path forward.

The graduation took place at The Secret Place Church site, located at 700 N Bullis Rd, providing a familiar and supportive environment for participants and their families.

The RDS team thoughtfully planned the event in advance to ensure a meaningful and organized celebration. It officially took place on Friday, April 24th, marking a milestone moment for all graduates.

The event featured a structured graduation ceremony that included a spoken word piece titled “The Battle of Womanhood” by RDS graduate De’Aija Lewis and aspiring emotional testimonies from RDS graduates such as Nicole and Momo.

Graduates received recognition, gifts, and plaques symbolizing their hard work and dedication. Their personal bios were read aloud by Brena Robinson, allowing each graduate’s story, growth, and aspirations to be heard and honored. Alexis Lawrence presented plaques to each participant, marking their successful completion of the program.

A highlight of the ceremony was the keynote address by Pastor Troy, who shared a
powerful message using the metaphor of the caterpillar and the butterfly. He spoke
on transformation, reminding graduates that their process, though challenging, was
necessary for growth, and that they are now stepping into a new version of
themselves with strength, beauty, and purpose.

The atmosphere was filled with joy, pride, and reflection as participants stood together, many wearing caps, holding flowers, and celebrating with their peers and loved ones. This graduation represents more than completion; it marks a shift.

Participants have gained tools for decision-making, emotional regulation, financial literacy, and life planning. They have demonstrated accountability and commitment to change and have taken meaningful steps toward stability and independence.

Following graduation, participants transition into their next phase, whether that includes employment, education, continued personal development, or reconnecting with community resources. RDS remains a supportive presence, encouraging ongoing growth and connection as participants continue building their futures.

The event was deeply emotional and uplifting. Graduates expressed pride in themselves and gratitude for the support they received. Families were moved to witness the progress and strength of their loved ones. The presence of community leadership, including the Mayor of Compton, reinforced the importance and impact of the program.

As a facilitator and participant in the event, I felt honored to help uplift each
graduate’s story. There was a shared sense of accomplishment, hope, and belief in
what is possible moving forward. The room carried a powerful energy of
transformation, sisterhood, and new beginnings.