Who We Serve
CSRI serves a diverse group of individuals who are often marginalized and misunderstood by society. The individuals carry a variety of labels such as ‘parolee’, ‘ex-offender’, or ‘convict’. These are terms that can perpetuate a very harsh and negative stigma, hinder personal growth, and limit opportunities for positive change. These terms also reinforce negative self-talk and create mental barriers for the individuals themselves.
Instead of reinforcing the doubt and despair, we refer to the individuals as “participants”. This term is not a replacement of words, but a replacement of mindset and a fundamental shift in how we perceive and engage with the people we support. By referring to them as participants, we emphasize their humanity and their active involvement in transforming their lives and the lives of those they love. This change acknowledges their efforts to rebuild and redefine their identities beyond the stigmas created by their past.
Our participants include the “formerly incarcerated” and the “justice-involved” – terms that recognize their interactions with the justice system without reducing their entire identity to a simple label. We believe that every person is more than the worst thing they have ever done, both our language and program reflects this belief.
The individuals we serve come from all walks of life, each with unique stories and challenges. Some are striving to reintegrate into society after serving time, while others are working hard to break free from cycles of crime and incarceration. Our participants are mothers, fathers, sons, and daughters – all are human beings longing for acceptance, understanding, and a second chance. Our program provides those things so they don’t fall into the trap of believing their acceptance and understanding can only be found in the streets.
Through our programs, we’ve witnessed remarkable transformations. Participants who once felt hopeless and trapped by their past have found new paths towards self-sufficiency, community contribution, and personal fulfillment. Many have found a way to pay-it-forward, making it possible for others to break the cycle of incarceration while making our cities safer. These stories of resilience and redemption inspire us daily and fuel our commitment to serving our participants with empathy, respect, and an unwavering belief in their potential.
Our work at CSRI would not be possible if it were not for a community full of people and organizations willing to give our participants hope and second chances. We collaborate with a broad network of stakeholders – including community organizations, law enforcement agencies, social service providers, and policy advocates – all dedicated to creating a safer and more compassionate society. Each stakeholder plays a vital role in supporting each participant’s success, and we value their contributions immensely.
As you explore our website, we invite you to view our participants through a lens of hope, possibility, and human dignity. We encourage you to learn about their journeys, celebrate their progress, and join us in advocating for policies and practices that affirm their worth and potential.
At CSRI, we don’t just serve “participants”. We serve human beings, full of potential and deserving of respect. We serve individuals who are striving to make positive changes in their lives, and we are privileged to walk alongside them on their journey.
