PUNTA GORDA — The first graduating class of the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office’s faith-based rehabilitation program was all smiles Tuesday as they received their diplomas and vowed to use their education to better themselves when they eventually are released.

The program is taught by volunteers, certified counselors and jail chaplain services, combining counseling, life skills, employment skills, addiction support and anger-management skills, among others. Agencies such as the CCSO, 211 and Charlotte Behavioral Health Care combine forces to make it a reality.