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Edris knows the value of being teachable and gaining new skills. Growing up in the projects of Flint, Michigan, his first job was washing dishes in a busy restaurant when he was 16. Edris saw each duty in the kitchen as an opportunity to learn something new.

Many voices often go unheard, and the journey of individuals impacted by the justice system can be both challenging and transformative. The JustLeadership USA (JLUSA) program empowers those with lived experiences to reclaim their narratives and advocate for meaningful change.

When Robert stepped out of prison, he had nothing but the clothes on his back. He had no money, no place to live, and no food, but he had one thing that would set him apart from everyone else and possibly save his future – his art.

When mail call came on the U.S. Naval carrier each week, every sailor would get quiet and listen closely for their name being called, hoping that someone from home – a sweetheart, a parent, a friend – would write to them and break the monotony of the six-week voyage to Korea. On one of those days, 18-year-old Michael would get a letter from his mother that would change his life forever.

Anthony is in disbelief. He doesn't understand what has changed since speaking to the landlord on the phone that morning. He’s been living in a transition house for the last nine months, but Anthony only has one week until he has to move out. Then he will be homeless, and he expects his parole officer will certainly violate him.

Darneicea Day, Site Director of the Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO) Los Angeles location, has journeyed down a winding and resilient road to reach her current position.

Abu, the youngest of ten kids raised in Chicago, has never been one to coast through anything in life; when he develops a passion for something, whether it be Scrabble, public speaking, or manufacturing operations, he goes all in. “I was raised to work,” says Abu. “I learned early on that if you are dedicated to something and set goals, then you can succeed.”

Feeling guilty and even a little ashamed, Prince showed his identification to the election poll worker, realizing this was his first time voting after leaving incarceration. Although he had voted previously in other elections, this one felt different.

The first time David stood on a stage and looked out at an auditorium filled with rambunctious kids, he was 27 and in the custody of the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR). He was sweating under the bright lights and a little nervous, but David knew he was there for a reason bigger than himself.

In the heart of North Carolina, Charlotte is steeped in rich history and known affectionately as Queen City, the fight for voting rights continues to unfold, especially for those facing the justice system. Eddie, a participant with the Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO) in Charlotte, knows these challenges all too well.