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Communications Strategies for Criminal Justice Reformers Interview with Alan Jenkins

Alan Jenkins of the Opportunity Agenda discusses how effective communications strategies are integral to criminal justice reform efforts.

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Back to School, Still Together: How Incarcerated Parents Can Stay Connected to Their Children

As the school year begins, one mother shares practical advice for maintaining strong relationships with children when families are separated by incarceration.

For parents, incarceration ultimately means separation, and we find ourselves wishing we could make up for the countless missed moments with our children. The percentage of school-aged children in the United States who have experienced parental incarceration is 6 percent—about 4.2 million children. These children aren’t asking for a perfect parent; ...

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August 25, 2026
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Who Gets a Seat at the Table?

Two incarcerated interns reflect on finding purpose, professionalism, and possibility through Vera.

Interning while incarcerated is an experience few people have the opportunity to talk about. This summer, we joined the Vera Institute of Justice (Vera) as incarcerated interns, contributing to individual projects while navigating the realities of prison life. Although we shared the same goal of gaining experience in the social justice work environ ...

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August 07, 2026
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“I Can Put My Guard Down”: How Restoring Promise Is Changing Prison Culture

The Restoring Promise approach is strengthening relationships, fostering accountability, and creating a healthier workplace for corrections professionals while helping young adults prepare for life after prison.

Correctional Sergeant Admir Efendic used to be on high alert when patrolling the section of Idaho State Correctional Institution (ISCI) that is now Cornerstone Village. The gray-walled unit was known for fights, drugs, and trouble, he said. “You would walk in and focus on security.”On a recent Wednesday, he greeted several residents with a smile an ...

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August 05, 2026
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