By: Jason Smith, Executive Director I recently took a journey—one that was both deeply personal and professionally illuminating—across some of America’s most pivotal civil rights landmarks. This trip was possible thanks to support from the Campaign for Criminal Justice Transparency (CCJT),  a Kalamazoo-based group dedicated to fostering transparency and engaging conversations between the community and those in positions of power. As an African American who has always been pas

We are excited to bring back our Board Member Spotlight  this fall. This month, we are highlighting Pura Strong, who describes herself as a devoted woman of faith, driven by an eager desire to ignite positive change in the lives of others. As a fierce leader, she dedicates her time to advocating for youth and families directly impacted by the child welfare and juvenile justice systems, both of which she experienced as a young person. Along with being a relatively new addition

By: Jason Smith, Executive Director October marks Youth Justice Action Month (YJAM) , a time when advocates nationwide raise awareness and inspire action for young people impacted by the justice system. This year, YJAM holds special significance here in Michigan, as October 1 marks the implementation of transformative juvenile justice reforms introduced through the Justice for Youth and Communities bill package, signed into law in December 2023. These reforms not only reflec