article by Hannah Olson |  photos couresty of Judd Thompson

Crumbling bricks and a dilapidated wall with plywood-covered windows loomed without the welcome those who entered its doors most deserved. But that once-forgotten wall stretching across the alley alongside 17 North 31st Street in downtown Billings is now bursting with life, color, and meaning, as something remarkable has taken shape, a mural not just of paint, but of hope, transformation, and second chances.

The mural, led by local artist Judd Thompson, was brought to life by more than 20 residents of Alternatives, Inc.’s Alpha House Pre-Release Center. Over two weeks, the men painted alongside Judd to transform the alley wall of a building where local Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous meetings are held. For many, it was a space they had already turned to in their own recovery, and this project offered the chance to leave a lasting contribution to others on the same path.

Funded by the Space2Place grant from Big Sky Economic Development and a private local donor, the mural has become a symbol of hope and restoration in a place that once felt discarded.

Judd Thompson brought both vision and heart to the project. Known for working solo on much of his artwork, Judd said this experience was a shift that pushed him in new ways.

"It was a challenge for me to work with a group. I'm so used to working alone, but it worked out great with the help of the guys," Judd said. "There were lots of different personalities bringing artwork together in a cohesive manner. I thought it was successful after hearing guys say things like, 'This painting is helping me get out of my head for a second. I'm not focused on my problems while I paint.'"

Residents echoed that sentiment throughout the project. One participant shared, “It was cool to be a part of something in the community. I never thought I’d be painting a mural, but here I am. It felt good.” Another resident described the impact simply: “It brought peace to my mind. It let me do something positive.”

For many of the men at Alpha House, this wasn’t just about art. It was about reconnecting with themselves and with the world around them. “We were proud of it,” one resident said. “When I go by now and point it out to people and say, ‘I helped paint that.’ It gave me something good to focus on.”

Another resident nearing the end of his time at Alpha House, reflected deeply on what the mural meant to him: “My contribution is in this alley now. I’ve been to both of these meetings, AA and NA, so it means something to me. It’s been a great experience, and I wouldn’t change a thing.” The community noticed. Passersby stopped to comment, praise, and ask about the project. “We get a lot of people walking through here that are in recovery or need recovery,” said a resident. “So, when they see this, it lifts their spirits. It’s uplifting.”

Judd said the support from Alternatives staff helped the project run smoothly, with food and water provided during long workdays. But the real support, he emphasized, came from the effort and pride the men brought to the work. "A lot of pride was put into that wall, for myself and a solid group of guys at Alpha House,” he said. “It always feels great to be able to give back to our community in a way that showcases my love for art. Without programs like these, there would be a lot more people out on the streets struggling.”

Founded in 1979, Alternatives was the first reentry program in Montana and remains a leader in community corrections across the state. Through programs like Alpha House, Alternatives provides structure, accountability, and support to individuals transitioning from incarceration. These services include substance use treatment, job placement, life skills training, and behavioral therapy, all of which help reduce recidivism. Still, there is no guarantee. The path to sobriety, stability, and a crime-free life requires ongoing effort and opportunity.

That’s why projects like the Second Chances Mural matter. They allow residents to give back, build a connection with the city they are rejoining, and be reminded that they still have something to offer. “When I paint, I’m not just thinking about my past anymore,” one resident said. “I’m thinking about what I’m doing right now, and that feels good.”

The mural is more than a piece of public art. It is a visible reminder of the power of community investment, the value of restorative programs, and the potential for change. Or, as one of the men put it, “It needed to happen.” And now that it has, the alley, the artists, and the community are all changed for the better.

Originally printed in the September 2025 issue of Simply Local Magazine

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