University Legal Services for the District of Columbia: DC Jail and Prison Advocacy Project
The DC Jail and Prison Advocacy Project provides direct legal services and policy advocacy related to equitable justice. The organization offers research based, client responsive planning and advocacy for clients during the reentry process. Their focus is to provide support for individuals who have been diagnosed with serious or chronic mental health issues, cognitive disabilities and/or substance abuse disorders associated with mental health diagnoses. According to the organization, 100% of their clients are returning to the community after incarceration, while 90% of their clients experience chronic homelessness and 90% are people of color. The DC Jail and Prison Advocacy Project believes that direct advocacy and support services for these clients is an essential part of reducing recidivism and breaking the cycle of incarceration. In addition to direct services, the organization works with community stakeholders and policymakers to implement policy changes that will increase access to equitable and restorative justice.