Dear PJI Supporters,
As the year draws to a close, I am filled with reflection on the remarkable progress we’ve made together. From celebrating graduations to advocating for wrongfully convicted individuals, I am reminded of your support that makes all of our efforts possible. Together, we are creating second chances and showing that justice and compassion are the foundations of real, lasting change.
Most recently, we welcomed home two courageous individuals. For the first time in decades, Gary Benloss and Rodney Derrickson—who together spent 52 years wrongfully incarcerated—will celebrate the holidays with their families and begin the long-awaited process of rebuilding their lives. We also celebrated the graduation of the fifth cohort of the Mayor’s Office on Returning Citizen Affairs (MORCA)-Georgetown Paralegal Program, where thirteen Fellows received their certificates from Georgetown Law. This achievement represents more than completing a challenging program—it is a testament to the power of second chances. The journey of these Fellows, and the opportunities they are opening for themselves and their families, inspire us all.
Throughout this year, we’ve been moved by powerful stories: Vonté Gaffney, proudly carrying his acceptance letter from Georgetown nearly two years later, speaking of his experience in the Bachelor of Liberal Arts Program; Shameka Hayes, who made history as the first incarcerated woman to hold public office in D.C.; and Edward Martinez, finally free after 20 years of wrongful imprisonment, reunited with his family on his daughter Freedom’s birthday. We’ve also witnessed the profound impact of our new Family First Program, where parents and children are coming together to build new memories and strengthen bonds that will support them for a lifetime.
As we prepare for 2025, we carry with us the successes of this past year, knowing there is still much more to be done. Thank you for your continued support of PJI and for helping us make a meaningful difference. I look forward to continuing this vital work with you in the year ahead.
Warm Regards,
Marc Howard
For incarcerated people and their families, the holidays can be a painful reminder of time lost away from loved ones. However, for the first time in decades, Gary Benloss and Rodney Derrickson will spend this holiday season reunited with their families. Read more
This year, the fifth cohort of the MORCA-Georgetown Paralegal Program celebrated a pivotal moment in their lives. Thirteen Fellows received certificates in Paralegal Studies from Georgetown Law, surrounded by family and friends. Read more
Nearly two years after he was admitted into the Georgetown Bachelor of Liberal Arts Program at the Patuxent Institution, Vonté Gaffney still carries copies of his acceptance letter in a folder, along with his latest academic transcripts. About halfway through his sixth semester of classes, he planned to mail the documents to family and friends to give them a tangible reminder of his progress toward earning a college degree. Read more
When Shameka Hayes was sworn into office on January 11, 2024, she made history as the first incarcerated woman to hold public office in D.C. Hayes was elected to be the commissioner of an Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) in Ward 7. She is now the third incarcerated person to hold the position — and the second Georgetown Prison Scholar. Read more
For Edward Martinez, May 24 has held a profound significance for the past 21 years, marking the birth of his daughter, Freedom. Now, over two decades later, this already meaningful date has taken on an even greater significance for Martinez and his family. On May 24, 2024—Freedom’s birthday—Edward Martinez walked free from Northern Neck Regional Jail. Read more
Recognizing the need for prevention alongside reentry programs, PJI Program Associate Colie “Shaka” Long designed the Family First Program to inspire youth and their families. From back-to-school giveaways to exciting trips that all ages can enjoy, Long is helping families create lasting memories together. Read more
While incarcerated at the D.C. Jail, John Moore found an unexpected opportunity to get his college education back on track as a Georgetown Prison Scholar. The Georgetown Prison Scholars Program allows students, like Moore, to take classes and earn college credits while at the D.C. Jail. Read more
On June 13, the sixth cohort of the Georgetown Pivot Program celebrated their graduation after nine months of intensive classroom and workplace instruction. This year, fourteen returning citizens marked this significant milestone, reinforcing the program’s mission to destigmatize and empower returning citizens as they transition into the workforce. Read more
Valerie Coats, director of the Georgetown Prison Scholars Program, was honored for her significant efforts and achievements at the Heroes of Hope: D.C. Partner Appreciation Banquet.
Tyrone Walker, director of Reentry Services at PJI, reflects on his journey in celebration of Second Chance Month 2024. Read more