SEPTEMBER 2026 | NEWSLETTER
Project Restore Case Manager: Anthony Brown & Case Mentor: Anthony Foster
HEALING HOME ON SCHEDULE
FIRE KEEPERS CORNER
BROWNSVILLE C ULINARY
See page 2 HH Public Announcment
See page 5 Celebrating Commissioner Jabari Jackson
See page 4 Brownsville Culinary Careers
PROJECT RESTORE: COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP IN ACTION Over the past year, both Anthony Brown, our dedicated Case Manager, and Anthony Foster, our respected Community Mentor, committed themselves to learning the Inside Circle methodology through our Facilitator Training Program. That investment has now evolved into meaningful action. This year, they are no longer participating solely as trainees—they are standing shoulder-toshoulder with our facilitation team, actively engaging young people in healing circles, restorative dialogue, and leadership development throughout the Marcus Garvey Village community. Their transition from students of the work to practitioners of the work reflects one of Project Restore's core values: developing leadership from within the communities we serve. Working directly with young people in Marcus Garvey Village, Anthony Brown and Anthony Foster help create spaces where participants are encouraged to build trust, strengthen emotional awareness, develop accountability, and discover healthier ways to navigate conflict and adversity. Their lived experience, consistency, and authentic presence allow them to connect with participants in ways that inspire hope and possibility. We are proud to recognize their commitment, celebrate their progress, and look forward to the continued impact they will have on the lives of the young people and families they serve. Every circle they facilitate reinforces our belief that healing is not something delivered to a community—it is something cultivated by the community itself. SEPTEMBER 2026
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HEALING HOME ON SCHEDULE
This month, Inside Circle reached a defining moment in our journey to create lasting pathways of healing and successful reentry. We proudly announced the public launch of the Healing Home Capital Campaign, bringing us one step closer to opening our first residential Healing Home in Sacramento this September. Designed as a healing-centered residence for men returning from incarceration, the Healing Home represents the next chapter of Inside Circle's continuum of care. For years, participants have experienced profound transformation through our
Rick Misener. Aaron Burris & Michael Benjamin
prison-based healing circles. The Healing Home extends that work beyond the prison walls, providing a stable environment where healing, accountability, community, and purpose continue to grow. The launch event brought together legislative representatives, community partners, and supporters for a private preview of the property. Representatives from the offices of Assemblymember Sade Elhawary, Senator Angelique Ashby, Senator Josh Becker, Assemblymember Isaac Bryan, and Assemblymember Maggy Krell joined us to tour the home, ask thoughtful questions, and engage in meaningful conversations about the future of restorative reentry. We were also grateful for the participation of the Anti-Recidivism Coalition, whose partnership continues to strengthen this movement. Leading the day's conversations were Eldra Jackson III, Erin Hall, Aaron Burris and Rick Misener, who welcomed guests, shared the vision behind the Healing Home, and guided visitors through the property. Throughout the tour, they discussed the philosophy behind the program, answered questions from legislative staff, and highlighted the importance of creating community-based spaces where men can continue the healing work they began while incarcerated. The event also received media attention as FOX40 News Sacramento interviewed members of the leadership team, helping bring broader awareness to the Healing Home's mission and the growing movement to transform reentry through healing rather than punishment alone. The campaign is already demonstrating remarkable community support. With a fundraising goal of $2.2 million, more than 65% of the campaign has already been raised, reflecting the confidence of donors, partners, and community members who believe in this vision. Eldra Jackson III touring Local Officals
As Inside Circle continues to grow, the Healing Home stands as a powerful reminder that transformation does not end with release from prison. It continues in community, through connection, and in spaces intentionally designed for healing.Healing isn't a moment. It's a practice that needs roots, walls, and people who stay. The Healing Home is where those three come together, creating a model for reentry that invests not only in individuals but in stronger families and healthier communities. SEPTEMBER 2026
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Giffords Gun Violence Prevention convention: Project Restore Takes Center Stage Recently, Eldra and Aaron had the privilege of representing Project Restore at the Giffords Gun Violence Prevention Conference, where we served as keynote presenters in Salon 7. It was an incredible opportunity to share the work that has been transforming lives in Brooklyn and to engage with leaders, practitioners, policymakers, researchers, and community advocates from across the country. Our presentation centered on the Project Restore Bed-Stuy model, demonstrating how a community-led approach to violence intervention can transform the lives of young people most impacted by gun and gang violence. We walked attendees through both the philosophy.
Eldra, Aaron & Aquilla
behind the program and the measurable outcomes that have emerged from the pilot. Project Restore combines restorative justice healing circles, intensive mentorship, case management, education, employment pathways, life-skills development, and community engagement into a holistic model that addresses the root causes of violence rather than simply responding to its consequences. One of the highlights of the presentation was sharing the remarkable outcomes of the Bed-Stuy pilot. Participants have successfully completed the program, secured employment, advanced their education, enrolled in accredited college programs, and begun preparing to become the next generation of credible messengers and restorative justice facilitators. We also highlighted one of the program's most significant achievements—bringing leaders from rival groups together to acknowledge past harm and develop a shared community safety and de-escalation plan. These outcomes continue to demonstrate that healing, accountability, and opportunity create lasting public safety. The conference also provided an opportunity to strengthen existing partnerships and build new ones. It was especially meaningful to reconnect with Aquilla Sherrils, our longtime partner from our work together in New Jersey, who has since returned to Los Angeles. Aquilla has long been a respected leader in the violence intervention movement, and reconnecting with him reinforced the importance of maintaining strong relationships across the country as this work continues to grow. We were equally excited to connect with Gilbert Bao, a formerly incarcerated leader whose personal journey reflects the power of redemption and second chances. Gilbert is now doing impactful violence intervention work throughout Los Angeles and California's Central Valley with Keys to Life. Our conversation highlighted the shared values that unite our organizations and opened the door to future collaboration as we continue expanding community-led approaches to reducing violence and restoring hope. Beyond our own presentation, the conference served as a reminder that this movement is larger than any one organization. Bringing together practitioners, policymakers, researchers, survivors, and credible messengers created an environment where ideas could be shared, partnerships strengthened, and innovative solutions explored. We left inspired by the commitment of so many people working toward safer communities through prevention, healing, and restoration.
SEPTEMBER 2026
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Brownsville Community Culinary Center
Inside Circle was honored to participate alongside our Project Restore Bed-Stuy participants in the NYC Youth Listening Tour at the Brownsville Community Culinary Center, where community leaders, educators, and public officials gathered to hear directly from young people about the opportunities and challenges shaping their futures. Among those in attendance was Jeannie Lopez from the Brooklyn District Attorney's Office, whose presence underscored the importance of investing in innovative, community-based programs that prepare young people for long-term success. Also featured in the event was Percy West, one of Project Restore Bed-Stuy's dedicated case managers and mentors, whose work continues to support participants as they build healthier, more purposeful lives. Led by its director and assistant director, the Brownsville Community Culinary Center provides young people with practical training in food preparation, hospitality, restaurant operations, and the many career pathways available throughout the culinary industry. As part of the day's program, two participants from Project Restore Bed-Stuy's Morning Healing Circle were invited to share their personal stories of transformation. Speaking with honesty and courage, they described how restorative healing circles helped them move beyond past challenges by fostering accountability, emotional growth, and a renewed sense of purpose. Their experiences demonstrated that healing is not only about overcoming adversity but also about developing the confidence and resilience needed to pursue education, meaningful employment, and positive community leadership. The event highlighted the powerful partnership between workforce development and restorative practices. While the Brownsville Community Culinary Center equips participants with valuable technical skills and career opportunities in the food industry, Inside Circle's Project Restore Bed-Stuy provides the personal foundation that allows those opportunities to flourish. Together, these organizations are helping young people discover that success is built through both professional preparation and personal transformation—creating stronger individuals, stronger families, and a stronger Brownsville community. SEPTEMBER 2026
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firekeepers corner
Firekeepers Corner Celebrates Commissioner Jabari Jackson The Firekeepers community proudly recognizes and celebrates Jabari Jackson on his appointment as a San Francisco Commissioner. This achievement represents the culmination of years of steadfast service, unwavering leadership, and a deep commitment to healing individuals and strengthening communities. Throughout his career, Jabari has consistently shown what it means to lead with integrity, compassion, and purpose, earning the respect of those who have had the privilege to work alongside him. Jabari has been a valued partner in advancing healing-centered work with Inside Circle, supporting youth development initiatives in Sonoma County and collaborating with the San Francisco Adult Probation Department through the Leading Change From Within program. His ability to connect authentically with people, foster accountability, and inspire personal transformation has left a lasting impact on countless individuals. Firekeepers is honored to recognize Jabari's continued commitment to community and healing, a journey that has now culminated in this well-deserved appointment. We congratulate Commissioner Jabari Jackson and look forward to the positive influence his leadership will continue to have throughout San Francisco.
SEPTEMBER 2026
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Writing from Inside - Circle
WE CAN WIN THE WAR B y P E A C E AT A N Y C O S T, (CSP-CENTINELA)
THE WORLD OUT THERE IS AT WAR....AND SO AM I. THEY ARE ALL FIGHTING ONE AND ANOTHER BUT ALL MY ENEMIES ARE DEEP INSIDE. THEY FIGHT AND KILL AND MAKE EACHOTHER BLEED. MY WAR WITHIN IS A DAILY STRUGGLE TO NURTURE THIS PLANTED SEED. YOU SEE I ONCE WAS A VIOLENT AND DANGEROUS MAN. BUT I WAS GIVEN THE GIFTS OF HOPE, PEACE AND LOVE. AND NOW I’M TRYING TO PASS THEM ON AS OFTEN AS I CAN. I’M A FIRM BELIEVER THAT THE WAR OUT THERE.... AND THE WAR IN HERE.... CAN BOTH BE WON, STARTING WITH A SINGLE MAN
SEPTEMBER 2026
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SHARING YOUR VOICE We believe it is important for the outside community to hear your voice. We've highlighted quotes from the words you sent us and shared on our social media under the title #VoicesFromTheInside. We've also highlighted quotes from the meditations and poems from the Folsom Prison Daybook.
SEPTEMBER 2026
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Bridging Circles Pen Pal Program Program Guidelines Inside Circle has been building an Outside Circle community over the last few years supporting women and men from the street - a.k.a the un-incarcerated - on personal growth journeys in the same way we’ve supported you men behind bars for over 20 years. We all need to check-in with a community. We all need to be heard. We all need to know we have not been forgotten. They have medicine to share and need to feel that they can be of service to others, to you. Can you reflect on your life and share a part of yourself, your medicine, on paper? Can you check-in by hand? We have a beautiful community of people that would love to write to you. In order to participate in the program, we ask that you understand and respect the following guidelines: Pen pals are only allowed to send you letters, they are not allowed to send you gifts, money, packages etc… Pen pals are not allowed to contact anyone on your behalf such as friends, family, lawyers, or judges. This is a pen pal service, not a dating service. Please respect your and your pen pal's boundaries. Pen pals are instructed to preserve their anonymity and to keep communications confidential. In turn, we ask that you respect their anonymity and keep their communications to you confidential. Pen pals are advised to check their judgments and be open to the background of others, and we ask the same of you. Pen pals are encouraged to not pry into places in your life that you do not wish to share, we ask that you show the same respect. If you find these guidelines agreeable, we ask that you please fill out the attached form, sign your name, and return it to us at the following address: Inside circle, 2443 Fillmore St. #380-4123, San Francisco, CA 94115. This will assist us in moving the process along to match you with a pen pal. We look forward to hearing from you and thank you for holding the light strong. If you have already completed this form, you are on our waiting list.
Full name: ____________________________________________________________________________________ CDC Number: ________________________________
Date of Birth:____________________________
Address: ______________________________________________________________________________________ City/State/Zip: _________________________________________________________________________________ Are you trained in Victim Offender Dialogue?
Yes
___________________________________________ Participant Signature
No
___________________________________________ Date Signed
INSIDE CIRCLE | 2443 FILLMORE ST. #380-4123 | SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94115 WWW.INSIDECIRCLE.ORG
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INFO CARD
THANK YOU FOR TAKING THE TIME TO SHARE A BIT ABOUT YOURSELF AND MAIL THIS BACK IN THE ENVELOPE PROVIDED.
FIRST NAME: ________________MIDDLE NAME:___________LAST NAME:________________________ MAILING ADDRESS:________________________________________________________________ CDCR#: ________________ D.O.B:___________CLASSIFICATION SCORE:________HOUSING LEVEL:_______ # OF SERIOUS/VIOLENT 115’S...before joining group: _________and #after joining group: _____________? HOW LONG DID YOU SIT IN GROUP?___________ARE YOU CURRENTLY MENTORING OR FACILITATING? (Y/N) _________
UE
TR
OF
RY VE
RT
TR
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T NO
SINCE STARTING GROUP WITH INSIDE CIRCLE...
UE
SURVEY
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WOULD YOU SIT IN GROUP AGAIN IF ABLE? (Y/N) _______ ARE YOU INTERESTED IN STARTING A GROUP? (Y/N) _______
I AM BETTER ABLE TO IDENTIFY AND MANAGE MY EMOTIONS............................ I AM BETTER ABLE TO TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR MY ACTIONS......................... I BELIEVE MY LIFE HAS A PURPOSE.............................................................. I AM MORE CONNECTED TO SOMETHING GREATER THAN MYSELF......................... I FEEL LESS ALONE................................................................................... I FEEL I AM WORTH SOMETHING................................................................... I BELIEVE THAT LIFE HAS VALUE................................................................. I AM BETTER ABLE TO COPE WITH STRESS..................................................... I AM MORE IN CONTROL OF MY LIFE AND ACTIONS......................................... I AM BETTER ABLE TO PUT MYSELF IN OTHER PEOPLE’S SHOES AND SEE THEIR SIDE OF THINGS......................................................................................... I AM MORE CONFIDENT IN MY ABILITY TO OVERCOME ADVERSITY....................... BELOW IS SPACE FOR YOU TO CHECK IN AND SHARE HOW YOU'RE DOING PHYSICALLY, INTELLECTUALLY, EMOTIONALLY, AND SPIRITUALLY. THERE'S ROOM FOR MORE ON THE BACK.
SEPTEMBER 2026
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CHECK-IN (CONTINUED) IF YOU HAVE ANY POEMS TO SHARE OR WORDS THAT HAVE MOVED YOU LATELY, WE'D LOVE TO HEAR THEM AND INCLUDE AS MANY AS POSSIBLE IN THE NEXT NEWSLETTER.
SEPTEMBER 2026
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