FAQ for The TJ Center and EinA

It’s easy! Either email mmcdrew@transformativejusticecenter.org or fill out the ‘Learn More’ information on the website. If there is space in the program, we would love to have you. We cap each program cohort at 30 volunteers. You can also follow us on Facebook to see regular updates and pictures from past cohorts.

Once we have an initial email or phone conversation after you’ve expressed interest, we will request information from you so you can be cleared for prison entry. This includes 3 forms to fill out and sign, one being the prison rules and policies, another the Prison Rape Elimination Act form, and lastly, a form that will ask for your personal information for the background check. This includes your legal name, DOB, DL or Passport Number, and Social Security number. We request these forms be turned in about 5-6 weeks before the start of the program session you are applying to. There is no formal application to fill out to volunteer.

All we ask is that you are over 18 years old and have some form of legal ID as in a Driver’s License or Passport. Formerly incarcerated folks can apply with a few extra forms to fill out. Otherwise, we ask that you make a commitment to attend all 8 sessions and come ready and willing to share your story with courage, vulnerability and truth while also willing to practice deep listening while hearing the stories of other volunteers and the Brothers in Blue.

Yes, the expectation is you attend every session. If something comes up, we ask that you notify us at least an hour before the program begins. Each session builds on itself so to get the most of out it, we ask you show up all 8 weeks.

As of now, we go into the Correctional Training Facility (CTF) of Soledad, North Yard.

There are policies and procedures in prison that you must follow to guarantee your safety, that of others and the program. This includes abiding by the dress code and other prison rules.

When in the program sessions with the Brothers in Blue, you will always be safe. You may feel challenged emotionally and mentally but this is our goal as the program is meant to be a vehicle for profound personal growth and connection.

There is a digital reader provided for free and we ask you read the articles and essays to be prepared for each session. With that said, you can still participate in the discussions without doing the readings. In summer, we ask you purchase the book and read along over the 6 weeks. If you aren’t able to purchase the book, we can help.

Indeed! We are able to provide a robust group of Brothers in Blue to work with your staff. We’ve facilitated art projects and installations, writing camps through the Marshall Project, faculty retreats and more. Just shoot us an email and let us know your interests.

Yes! If you’d like to be a pivotal part of our growth and are passionate about working with justice-impacted individuals and families, send us an email and let us know your areas of interest. We can always use help with outreach, marketing, social media, graphic design, and if you have skills in alternative healing and wellness.