Vera Institute of Justice

Valdez Heron is a program associate with Vera’s Restoring Promise initiative. He first joined Vera in 2016 and supported the initial development of this initiative. In his role, Valdez focuses on data collection and analysis, collaborative research, and technical assistance to site partners. He leads and prepares restorative justice circles and designs the mentorship program.

Valdez has a background in policy, lobbying, and equity from his work with the Close Rikers, bail reform, and speedy trial campaigns. His passions are in criminal and youth justice reform, family engagement, and community building.

Valdez is a proud dad. He was born and raised in Brooklyn and has family from Jamaica.