Pine Grove officer volunteers to lead Bible study

January 13, 2026

A Pine Grove Youth Conservation Camp correctional officer has gone beyond his normal duties to establish a Bible study for camp participants.

Correctional Officer Rodney Landreth is making a lasting difference in the lives of the incarcerated men he supervises.

Last Spring, Officer Landreth took the initiative to create a weekly Bible study group for the camp. The group’s idea is rooted in hope, faith, and the belief that change begins from within.

What started as a simple proposal has since grown into a meaningful space for reflection, growth, and fellowship.

Breaking cycles, learning new skills

“I see an opportunity to give the youth a way to change their mindset,” Landreth wrote. “Potentially (this will) keep them from returning to the cycle they have been caught in most of their lives.”

His vision was clear: In addition to learning work skills, the youth would also be equipped with spiritual and emotional tools to help them succeed.

Through his dedication, Landreth secured a donation of new Bibles for the participants. Each one represents a chance to build a stronger foundation for life beyond incarceration. The feedback from staff and participants has been overwhelmingly positive. Many have expressed appreciation for the sense of peace and connection the group has fostered.

Hugo Sanchez, a credible messenger from the Anti-Recidivism Coalition, said the group has helped him see correctional officers in a different light.

“It awakened a newfound respect in me for officers. And I believe that it has done the same for some of the (other) men your officers oversee,” Sanchez wrote to the camp commander.

He also expressed how impressed he was with the group’s attendance.

Incarcerated people sitting in a circle for a Bible study at Pine Grove Youth Conservation Center.

Youth Offender Mentor Gary Hillard said he looks forward to attending Officer Landreth’s Bible study. He also finds himself more engaged and appreciates the positivity it brings.

“When they leave (camp), I want to say I did my job to its fullest potential and did everything I could,” said Landreth. “(And that we) gave them the tools they need to succeed.”

His initiative reflects the heart of Pine Grove’s purpose: guide, mentor, and empower individuals toward a better path.

Submitted by Lt. Vanessa Melendez, Camp Commander
Pine Grove Youth Conservation Camp

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