A Better Me Program was founded by Dr. Jaxton Parnell, with the mission to provide professional skills development, substance abuse counseling, and community reintegration support to individuals with criminal justice involvement.

Our founder's passion drove the creation of this program to fill a gap in the community for those seeking to rebuild their lives after facing legal challenges. With a personal touch and dedication to helping others, we strive to empower individuals to become their best selves and successfully reintegrate into society.

Dr. Jaxton Parnell’s journey is at the heart of A Better Me Program. Once a troubled youth who faced the challenges of the legal system and the pain of family trauma, he knows firsthand the struggles that many of our participants experience. With the love, guidance, and support of a mentor from a program much like this one, Dr. Parnell turned his life around.

Determined to create a better future, he went back to school—earning a bachelor’s degree in Sociology, a master’s degree in psychology, and a Doctorate in Divinity. Today, he serves as the Senior Pastor of Manna Empowerment Center, as well as a devoted husband and father.

Dr. Parnell founded A Better Me Program to give back what was once given to him: hope, direction, and the opportunity to change. His mission is to walk alongside others as they rebuild their lives, proving that with guidance and determination, transformation is possible.