Former Federal Prisoner in Pittsburgh Becomes Youth Football Coach and Watches Troubled Student “Jo,” Once Deemed a Lost Cause, Earns Full-Ride Scholarship to Akron University
James Raid's story is one of powerful transformation.
December 6, 2026
This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on December 1, 2026
After serving over a decade in federal prison, James Raid turned his life around by coaching youth football and running after-school programs in his community.
His proudest accomplishment is saving lives and changing the cycle of negativity amongst young black males.
James Raid came home with a clear mission to change his life and lift his community.
He found his calling on the football field and in after-school programs. He discovered an ability to reach and groom young black males, turning his past struggles into a source of strength for the next generation.
Twenty years later, the impact of his turnaround is profound.
Raid has built a strong family, celebrating his children’s successes in college and business. He has built a stable life, with a lasting marriage and a career.
Most importantly, he has built a legacy of service. His work has been honored with a Man of Excellence award and recognition in Pennsylvania’s House of Representatives.
However, the real reward for him is being a hope dealer, coaching, training, and guiding boys to become men.
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From Prison to Purpose: How a Former Inmate Helped a ‘Lost Cause’ Student Win a College Scholarship
After spending more than a decade in federal prison, James Raid came home with a mission to change the trajectory of young lives in his community.
He coaches youth football and runs after-school initiatives, but his most tremendous success is measured in stories like Jo’s.
Jo was a student the system had all but given up on.
The PPS had declared he would never be allowed into one of their schools. Since elementary school, he attended an alternative academy and was labeled a future negative statistic.
He was another young Black male destined for jail, an institution, or death.
However, Jo’s mother refused to accept that fate and sought a positive and disciplined environment.
Raid and fellow Coach Donta put their own reputations on the line, co-signing to get Jo into Westinghouse High School.
I’ve been in this kids life since he was seven years old. I’ve seen him at his worst, and through the grace of God, the last year I’ve seen him at his best.
The journey wasn’t easy.
Raid admits that Jo repeatedly tested his patience and faith over the years, but he never gave up, defying the many who said Jo would amount to nothing.
That unwavering belief has paid off in extraordinary ways. The young man once deemed a lost cause has earned a full-ride scholarship to the University of Akron.
I am beyond proud of him and his growth. This is what I’m about, this is what defines my success in life, this is truly what The Programs about, saving lives and changing the cycle of negativity amongst young black males. I am beyond proud of Jo. Another Program kid on his way to college for free
Raid’s Facebook post is about second chances, both for himself and for the young people he now guides. It proves that with persistent support and belief, no child is beyond reach.
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In Case You Didn’t Know
- 57-year-old James Raid was born on November 28, 1968, in Garfield, Pennsylvania.
- He graduated from Peabody High School in 1986 and attended Waynesburg University.
- He works at Allegheny County Sanitary Authority (ALCOSAN).
- Check other Articles on
Ashish Maharjan, author at Players Bio, has been covering news with a keen eye for detail and a knack for storytelling. A writer with a passion for capturing the essence of athletic competition.
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