Editor’s Note: An Elmore County Jail inmate is identified as Preacher Man. He is close to getting out of jail and is hopeful to turn his ways around once outside. His name is not being used in an attempt to protect him from gang members he once associated with.

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Cliff Williams / TPI Amari Parker organized Built to Lead to give back to Tallassee where he grew up. He wants to make the camp an annual event.

Inspiration for youth can come from almost everywhere.

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Cliff Williams / TPI Tallassee High School alum Johnathan Wright, right, helps a camper with a tie. Wright worked with the campers on how make themselves presentable in various environments and how to greet people in a professional environment.

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Cliff Williams / TPI Campers were blindfolded in one activity to show how distractions can lead youth astray. It also showed the campers they can’t trust everyone they encounter.

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Cliff Williams / TPI Elmore County Jail trustee ‘Preacher Man’ speaks to Built to Lead campers about his path into gangs and drugs. It’s a path he is optimistic about overcoming.

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