JustLeadershipUSA (JLUSA) operates on the belief that those most affected by systemic issues are best equipped to address them. Founded on the principle that “the people closest to the problem are the people closest to the solution, but furthest from resources and power,” JLUSA focuses on empowering individuals with prior incarceration experience. They invest in, educate, empower, and amplify the voices of formerly incarcerated individuals, providing them with the tools and resources needed to advocate for themselves, their families, and their communities.
Chicago Beyond’s $450,000 investment actively supports JLUSA’s efforts to advance the leadership and impact of people formerly incarcerated and individuals directly impacted by the justice system. Through leadership training, public narratives, partnerships, and policy work, JLUSA and its leadership network are taking action to reduce mass incarceration in the United States.
Chicago Beyond amplifies the impact of solutions driven by those closest to the issues. We aim to notice, relate, and work differently, both as a funder and as a partner to those we invest in. By consistently applying these practices, we recenter humanity in philanthropy and all that we do.