California Justice Leaders

This groundbreaking AmeriCorps program opens doors for justice-involved young adults through service placements and the support these unique AmeriCorps members provide.

Young people who’ve been incarcerated face enormous hurdles to successfully re-join their communities. Finding a job, securing safe, affordable housing, continuing their education, and developing healthy relationships with their families are just some of the challenges they confront, and often with little or no support.

California Justice Leaders is a first-of-its-kind AmeriCorps program, that enlists talented, motivated young adults who’ve made that difficult transition back into their communities to help guide their young peers. Through partnerships with California Volunteers and more than 20 community organizations in Los Angeles, Sacramento, San Joaquin, Fresno, Contra Costa, Santa Clara, and Alameda counties, CJL members receive training and professional development to work as re-entry navigators and mentors.

Each year, California Justice Leaders undertake the important work of inspiring and supporting young people to make positive life choices after incarceration. In particular, they help them take advantage of California’s Honorable Discharge petition, which removes barriers that might otherwise limit their future success. The program is also a growth opportunity and launch pad for the California Justice Leaders themselves, who transition from AmeriCorps placements into permanent jobs, go on to pursue advanced degrees, and excel in other ways.