Contact: Bobby Dean, 303-552-4710

SIMONTON, Texas, Dec. 7, 2010 /Christian Newswire/ -- When Joy Norwood was killed by a hit and run driver in 2000, family and friends could never imagine the impact of one short life. Almost a decade later, the tragedy has given birth to a remarkable chain of events impacting people all over the world.

Shock and outrage spread across the rural community west of Houston, TX, which was divided economically and racially. People demanded justice for the tragedy that cut a 4 year olds' life short as she returned from t-ball practice. Grove Norwood, Joy's father, learned that Ulice Parker, an elderly family friend, had been identified as the driver. Rather than revenge, Norwood offered forgiveness. The community saw two grieving men - different races, backgrounds, and lifestyles - sitting together on the front row at Joy's funeral.

The initial forgiveness was demonstrated later by unbelievable actions. In 2001, Norwood expressed concern about the housing situation of the Parkers and led area churches to build them a new home. Ultimately, this building project united the community - as black, white, and hispanic neighbors pitched in to celebrate forgiveness and goodwill. Rev. Clay Spears remarked "I saw an invisible God become visible in this town!"

In 2004, filmmakers began documenting the story and community impact. The Heart of Texas (www.heartoftexasthemovie.com) was released in 2008 as a docudrama and has won numerous awards, including best documentary at Worldfest, the world's largest film festival. Over 30,000 people from all 50 states and many countries have ordered the DVD.

Later that year, Norwood learned that the movie was making an impact on prison inmates, as they reflected on their need to deal with bitterness, anger, hatred, and resentment in their lives. The Chaplain's office for the State of Texas has asked that the documentary be shown in all Texas prisons.   

Norwood established The Heart of Texas Foundation (www.heartoftexasfoundation.org) in 2009 to "find joy in helping those who cannot repay." They are working to transform the hearts of inmates and reunite families disrupted by incarceration. In 2010, Norwood announced an initiative with Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary to establish a 4-year accredited Bible College and Seminary inside Texas prisons.

Norwood is now leading the foundation and speaking about his experiences. The Heart of Texas film continues to be shown in prisons and churches worldwide. Thousands of Facebook and Twitter fans post comments daily about how the story inspires them. (www.Facebook.com/heartoftexasmovie)