Sheldon Gooch offers an autobiographical account in graphic detail of how, at fourteen, he entered the dark world of drug abuse. He shares the progressive steps he took to mount and ride one of the deadliest, most addictive drugs to hit his neighborhood.
His personal values and morals became negotiable, transforming him into a riotous public enemy suitable only for death or long-term incarceration. This was unacceptable to Sheldon. While incarcerated, serving LIFE plus sixty years, he embarked on a different journey. The path he chose was education and he earned several degrees.
Through faith and personal development, he became an example of criminal rehabilitation. After a governor’s release, his story was thrust into the national spotlight to include appearances on DATELINE NBC and The Oprah Show. He has held many top executive positions at large firms in Mississippi.
Sheldon has spoken in every school district and on every college campus in the state of Mississippi as well as across the United States. He has conducted workshops and ministry in over 30 prisons around the country. He shares personal development concepts that not only empower the prisoner and ex offender, but also improves upon those who have never been in a structured prison. His honest, down-to-earth style leaves a lasting impact as attendees leave with ownership of what they learned.
Sheldon is the founder and executive director of I’m Free, Incorporated, and organization established to assist in the successful transition of newly released ex-offenders into society. He is the author of the CANEI Curriculum which represents Continuous And Never-Ending Improvement. The program has enjoyed 100% success for over 30 years.
Sheldon Gooch is a recording artist and has sung and spoken in over 700 churches in Mississippi and scores throughout the United States. He has been the keynote speaker for mayors' prayer breakfasts and civic clubs, for conferences and for professional organizations. His book, entitled I’m Free, can be purchased on Amazon. He enjoys sharing God's Word. He loves John 8:36: “If the Son therefore shall make you free, you shall be free indeed.”
