As some of you know, I am running the NYC Half Marathon on Sunday, March 20. Although there is no good reason to run 13.1 miles, I am trying to create one by raising funds for Joseph House, a beautiful, one-of-a-kind, residential reentry program that serves returning citizens after decades of incarceration and solitary confinement.

In addition to providing secure housing, which has proven to be the (elusive) foundation of a successful reentry, Joseph House creates individualized reentry plans based on the goals and needs of each person they serve. The organization has been a lifeline for many formerly incarcerated people, including a former client who was freed in his 40s after being wrongfully convicted at the age of 13. For other people, Joseph House also provides skeptical parole boards the needed assurance to do the right thing. Their team accompanies, advocates for, and walks with the people most directly affected by the crisis of mass incarceration. I can’t fully articulate how unique Joseph House is and how essential their work has been to creating a more just and hopeful country.

Joseph House is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit that relies on community generosity and donations. For this Run for Reentry campaign, our goal is to raise $13,100, which will allow Joseph House to continue its critical work. Any amount would be greatly appreciated or consider donating per mile. You can donate here and all donations are tax deductible.

Thank you so much for your consideration and support! And I’ll be sure to send some pictures of me crawling through the finish line.