There are some people in this world who don’t just talk about helping others, they dedicate their lives to it.
Joe A. Evans Jr. is one of those people.

For over two decades, Joe has devoted himself to serving the young people and families of Jefferson County. You can find him in the courtroom, in the schools, in the neighborhoods, or sitting across from a young person who just needs someone to believe in them. Joe doesn’t measure success by titles or accolades. He measures it by the number of lives he can help guide toward a better future.

Joe has spent more than 4,000 hours in the courtroom, working in multiple capacities as an expert witness in substance-use cases, a provider of expert testimony in DNA and paternity matters, a member of specialty court teams, and most importantly, a guardian and advocate for youth who often have no one else in their corner. Last year alone, he has stood beside young people in over 300 court hearings.

He currently serves as a Juvenile Intervention Specialist for Inspire, Encourage, Achieve (IEA) and as the Executive Director of ReVision Southeast Texas, where he leads programs that focus on mentorship, diversion, substance-abuse prevention, and second chances. In addition, he is the court-appointed Guardian ad Litem and Educational Surrogate for more than 20 young people, a role he treats with the same seriousness and compassion as a parent would.

But Joe’s service didn’t start in a courtroom. Before entering the nonprofit sector, he spent more than a decade managing operations at Beaumont Occupational Services, where he became a trusted expert in substance testing, occupational health, and courtroom testimony. His expertise and professionalism earned him the respect of judges, attorneys, and families across the region.

Joe’s life work is guided by one simple belief:
Every young person deserves dignity, hope, and a chance to get it right.

A graduate of Florida A&M University and Lamar University,  where he earned his Master of Public Health. Joe combines education, experience, and heart in everything he does. His work in juvenile justice, public health, and community engagement has strengthened partnerships across schools, courts, law enforcement, and local organizations.

Yet with everything he has accomplished, Joe remains humble. He is a father, grandfather, a mentor, and a servant-leader who understands that justice isn’t just about laws, it’s about people. It’s about listening, lifting others up, and believing that potential is greater than mistakes.

In the spirit of fairness, compassion, and second chances, Joe continues to serve Jefferson County with integrity, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to doing what is right.

Mark passed away on August 3, 2024. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and serving alongside him.