Wildlife and nature

Animal shelters and rescues

Theater and dance

Rivers, parks and trails

Hunger and food

Schools and learning

Housing and homelessness

Community health

Mental health

Mentoring and foster care

Legal help and rights

Jobs and money help

Atlanta

The Triangle

Everywhere

The Collective Workshop

Royal Animal Refuge

Asian Americans Advancing Justice-Atlanta

Georgia Advancing Communities Together

Atlanta Writers Club

Cobb Collaborative

Bosleys Place

Jewish Fertility Foundation

For 40 years, Georgia Justice Project (GJP) has served Georgians impacted by the criminal legal system.
Georgia Justice Project strengthens our community by demonstrating a better way to represent and support individuals in the criminal justice system and reduce barriers to reentry. GJP promotes innovative change through direct legal representation, policy advocacy, education and coalition building.
For over 40 years, Georgia Justice Project (GJP) has served Georgians impacted by the criminal legal system. Our mission strengthens our community by demonstrating a better way to represent and support those individuals. GJP’s overall goals are two-fold; to lower the number of people under correctional control and reduce barriers to reentry.
The need for this work is great. The U.S. leads the world in incarceration rates with 20% of all incarcerated people but only 4% of the world’s population. Sadly, Georgia is 46% higher than national figures. 1-in-18 Georgians are also under correctional control (which includes people in jail or prison and under probation or parole), compared to 1-in-37 nationally. Additionally, 4.6 million people have a Georgia criminal history, approximately 40% of adults.
GJP’s work addresses all stages of the criminal justice system, from arrest to reentry, and we approach social change in three distinct ways:

Second Chance Do-It-Yourself Pro Se Legal & Reentry Resources

Family Fair 2026

Voting Rights for People with Felony Convictions

Record Clearing Event & Job Resource Fair

Seeking Legal Volunteers for upcoming Pardon Clinic

Post Cross Over Review: What Survived & What's Next

Joyful Resistance

Volunteer with Georgia Justice Project

Give

"The System's Alienating Impact"

HB 162: First Offender Updates & Resources

GJP’s Do It Yourself (Pro Se) Record Clearing Resources

Grass Roots Justice Awards 2026

GJP’s 2026 Legislative Kickoff – Watch the Replay

Holiday Joy Made Possible by You: 2025 Holiday Event Recap

Fiscal Year 2023 Annual Report

Fiscal Year 2022 Annual Report

Fiscal Year 2021 Annual Report

Fiscal Year 2020 Annual Report

Fiscal Year 2019 Annual Report

Fiscal Year 2018 Annual Report

Ann Colloton

Anna Szatkowski

April Dobbs

Atoyia Johnson

Brenda Smeeton

Dominique Harris

Dominque Madison

Doug Ammar

Emily Spears

Ermis Zayas

Genny Drash

Hannah Krawczyk

Jalyssa Hobbs

Johnnie Robinson

Karin Lovell

Kat Lake

Molly Scott

Paige Jann

Rachel Gamblin

Rachel Holmes

Rachel Kennedy

Ronny Mackey

Sarah Aufdenkampe

Sommer Delgado

Spencer Murray

Stephanie Fielder

Tiffany Gordon

Wade Askew

Zandria Redding

Rev. Dr. Joanna Moseley Adams

Brian Strickland

🗳️ Georgia, it’s Election Day! Let’s make sure you’re ready. We want your voting experience to be as smooth as possible, so here’s a quick reminder before you head to the polls! ✅ Polls are open from 7 AM to 7 PM. ✅ If you’re in line by 7 PM, stay in line! You can still vote. ✅ Bring an acceptable photo ID. ✅ Double-check your assigned polling location at mvp.sos.ga.gov. And here’s something we really want you to know: If you have questions about your voting eligibility, we’re here to help. We’ve heard from Georgians who have received conflicting or incorrect information about their right to vote, particularly those sentenced under the First Offender Act. Don’t let confusion or misinformation be the reason you miss your opportunity to vote. 📞 If you have questions or run into issues with your voting eligibility, call Georgia Justice Project at 404-827-0027, option 5. We’re here to help you understand your rights and make your voice heard. Now, go make your voice count, Georgia! ✅💚 #ElectionDay2026 #GeorgiaVotes #KnowYourRights #VotingRights

🚨 GEORGIA VOTERS: KNOW YOUR RIGHTS! GJP has received numerous calls from voters sentenced under Georgia’s First Offender Act who have been incorrectly told they cannot vote. Some have received letters, been turned away at the polls, or discovered their voter registration was canceled. Others have received incorrect information from their probation officers. Here’s what you need to know: If you received a felony First Offender Act sentence and your First Offender status has NOT been revoked, you have NOT been convicted of a felony and have NOT lost your right to vote. 🗳️ Don’t let misinformation keep you from exercising your rights. If you’ve experienced any of these issues or have questions about your voting eligibility, contact Georgia Justice Project. Your voice matters. Your vote matters. Know your rights and make your voice heard! #GeorgiaVoters #KnowYourRights #FirstOffenderAct #VotingRights #Election2026

Closing Pro Bono Week with a special tribute to Joel Neuman! 🎊 Some volunteers give their time. Others help shape an organization’s legacy. Joel Neuman has done both. For decades, Joel has been an extraordinary advocate, leader, and friend to Georgia Justice Project. From serving on our Board of Directors and as Board Chair to his continued work as an attorney volunteer and our current General Counsel, Joel’s commitment to GJP has been nothing short of remarkable. With 175 hours of pro bono legal service contributed THIS YEAR, Joel continues to demonstrate what it means to put legal expertise into action for the benefit of others. But his impact extends far beyond the hours. His leadership, guidance, and steadfast belief in our mission have helped GJP grow, navigate challenges, and expand opportunities for the people and communities we serve. As we celebrate 40 years of Georgia Justice Project, we’re especially grateful for the people who have helped build and sustain this organization along the way. Joel, thank you for the countless ways you’ve invested your time, talent, and heart into GJP. Your service is a powerful reminder that lasting change takes more than a moment of generosity. It takes years of showing up. Inspired to make a difference? Volunteers are essential to GJP’s mission, and there’s always room for more people committed to expanding access to justice. Learn how you can lend your time and talents at www.gjp.org/volunteer/. #ProBonoWeek #VolunteerSpotlight #AccessToJustice #VolunteerWithGJP

⚖️ Pro Bono Week Volunteer Spotlight: David Lebby Opening doors for clients. Creating opportunities for growth. David Lebby’s connection to Georgia Justice Project began in law school, when he assisted with his first record-sealing case. That experience opened his eyes to the lasting barriers a criminal record can create, even long after someone has paid their debt to society. Today, David is an associate at Finnegan, Henderson, Farabow, Garrett & Dunner, LLP, where he focuses on patent litigation. He continues volunteering with GJP because he’s seen firsthand the relief clients experience when they can finally move forward without their past holding them back. His volunteer work has also brought meaningful professional milestones. During a recent GJP case, David delivered his first oral argument at a hearing involving the restriction and sealing of records of pardoned convictions, with GJP staff supporting him throughout the preparation and hearing. ⚽ Beyond the courtroom: David enjoys playing kickball with his three children, all under five years old. And apparently, in their version of the game, the bases can be run in any direction! 😄 Thank you, David, for your dedication to GJP’s clients and your commitment to making second chances possible! #ProBonoWeek #VolunteerSpotlight #AccessToJustice #SecondChances

⚖️ Pro Bono Week Volunteer Spotlight: Alex McDonald A record from decades ago shouldn’t stand in the way of someone’s future. For Alex McDonald, an Associate at Jones Day, volunteering with Georgia Justice Project is an opportunity to help people overcome barriers that can follow them long after their involvement with the legal system. Through GJP’s record restriction and sealing work, Alex helps clients navigate legal processes that can make a meaningful difference in their ability to secure employment, housing, and greater stability. What keeps him coming back? The gratitude of the clients he serves and the opportunity to work alongside GJP’s dedicated staff. Alex’s experience has reinforced just how challenging the record-clearing process can be and how valuable legal assistance is for individuals seeking a second chance. 🎾 Beyond the courtroom: Alex enjoys playing tennis with an ALTA team out of Bitsy Grant and serving as a youth group leader for ninth and tenth graders at First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta. Thank you, Alex, for sharing your time, legal expertise, and commitment to helping Georgians move forward! #ProBonoWeek #VolunteerSpotlight #AccessToJustice #SecondChances

⚖️ Pro Bono Week Volunteer Spotlight: D.K. Cooper One intake. One person. One impacted life at a time. When D.K. Cooper discovered Georgia Justice Project during the pandemic, he was looking for a meaningful way to give back. What he found was a mission that resonated deeply: helping people overcome the barriers a criminal record can create to employment, housing, and long-term stability. Years later, D.K. continues to volunteer because he believes in the power of second chances and the potential of every person GJP serves. “Every charge has a backstory, and every person has a future that is still being written.” Through his volunteer service, D.K. helps people take meaningful steps toward that future, reminding us that no one should be defined solely by their past. 🚢 Beyond GJP: D.K. admits he caught the cruising bug on his 40th birthday! These days, you’ll find him setting sail regularly, exploring new destinations one cruise at a time. Thank you, D.K., for your dedication, compassion, and commitment to creating opportunities for second chances! #ProBonoWeek #VolunteerSpotlight #AccessToJustice #SecondChances

⚖️ It’s Pro Bono Week, and we’re celebrating the people who help make justice possible! Last year, volunteer attorneys donated an incredible 2,224.4 hours of legal service to Georgia Justice Project, helping Georgians overcome legal barriers, protect their rights, and move toward brighter futures. Behind those hours are dedicated attorneys who generously share their time, talent, and expertise ⚖️ It’s Pro Bono Week, and we’re celebrating the people who help make justice possible! Last year, volunteer attorneys donated an incredible 2,224.4 hours of legal service to Georgia Justice Project, helping Georgians overcome legal barriers, protect their rights, and move toward brighter futures. Behind those hours are dedicated attorneys who generously share their time, talent, and expertise because they believe access to justice matters. Throughout the week, we’ll shine a spotlight on a few of the outstanding volunteers whose commitment makes a meaningful difference in the lives of the people we serve. To every attorney who has answered the call to serve, thank you for being part of GJP’s mission! 💚 #ProBonoWeek #GeorgiaJusticeProject #AccessToJustice #VolunteerAppreciation #40YearsOfImpact

🗳️ Georgia, early voting is underway! Registered to vote but concerned that your criminal record might affect your eligibility? Don’t let uncertainty keep you from getting the information you need. ✅ Check your voter registration status through Georgia’s My Voter Page (MVP). ✅ Make your voting plan. Early voting continues through October 30! You can also find your polling location and view your sample ballot through MVP. ✅ Know where to turn for help. If your registration status shows anything other than “Active,” or you encounter issues at the polls, contact Georgia Justice Project. Our team can help clarify your voting rights and provide assistance. 🔗 Georgia’s My Voter Page is linked in our bio. Your record doesn’t always mean you’ve lost your right to vote. Know your rights. Make your plan. Let your voice be heard! #GeorgiaJusticeProject #GeorgiaVoters #EarlyVoting #VotingRights #KnowYourRights

Your community is on the ballot. 🗳️ Voting isn’t just about the names you hear the most. The people elected to local and state offices help make decisions about laws, budgets and public resources that affect our communities — including the criminal legal system. From courts and corrections to reentry resources, schools, youth programs and community services, your vote is one way to have a say in the decisions that shape where you live. 📅 Georgia’s voter registration deadline is Monday, October 5. Ready to register or check your voter status? Visit Georgia’s My Voter Page (MVP) — it’s linked in our bio. Your voice. Your community. Your vote. 🗳️

Some reentry remedies don’t require an attorney - if you know where to start. Join Georgia Justice Project and @barredbusiness for the next Talk Justice Tuesday as we share practical resources designed to help justice-impacted Georgians navigate reentry barriers and take action on their own. Learn more about GJP’s Do-It-Yourself (DIY)/Pro Se resources, including eligibility information, step-by-step instructions and templates for pursuing certain legal remedies without an attorney. 🗓 Tuesday, October 13 ⏰ 12 PM 💻 Virtual Register at bit.ly/TalkTuesdayRSVP Knowledge is power and sometimes knowing where to start can make all the difference. #TalkJusticeTuesday #Reentry #SecondChances

Georgia voters: your record may not be stopping you from voting. 🗳️ Completed your felony sentence? You can vote. Serving a First Offender or Conditional Discharge sentence that hasn’t been revoked? You can vote, too. And registering may be easier than you think. GJP Outreach & Reentry Associate Dominique Harris walks you through Georgia’s My Voter Page step by step—from answering the eligibility question to completing your registration. Know your rights. Check your eligibility. Take your voice back. 🔗 Visit Georgia’s My Voter Page through the link in our bio. Learn more at GJP.org/voting. #GeorgiaVoters #VotingRights #RegisterToVote #GeorgiaJusticeProject

It’s National Voter Registration Day! 🗳️ And your record may not mean what you think it means for your right to vote. In Georgia, if you’re serving a felony First Offender Act or Conditional Discharge sentence and your status has not been revoked, you can vote — even before your sentence is complete. GJP Davidson Impact Fellow, Jalyssa Hobbs, breaks down what you need to know and why your vote matters beyond the names at the top of the ballot. The people elected to state and local offices make decisions that can directly affect our communities and our everyday lives. Know your rights. Register. Use your voice. 🔗 Georgia’s My Voter Page is linked in our bio.

Ready to clear what’s holding you back? GJP is proud to partner on this upcoming record clearing event for Fulton County. GJP attorneys will be on hand to provide guidance on criminal records and help participants better understand their options. Eligible participants can receive assistance with misdemeanor and felony records in Fulton County through the event. 📌 Pre-registration is required. Visit the registration link in our bio to get started. Take the first step toward putting your record behind you and moving forward.

Felony sentence complete? Your voice doesn’t have to be. 🗳️ If you’ve completed your felony sentence, you can vote in Georgia…and your vote matters. The people we elect make decisions that shape our communities, our opportunities, and our criminal legal system. Your experiences and your voice deserve to be part of those decisions. ✅ Check your status. ✅ Register to vote. ✅ Make your voice heard. Visit the Georgia MVP link in our bio to register or check your status. For more information about voting rights with a criminal record, visit GJP.org/voting. #GeorgiaJusticeProject #VotingRights #GeorgiaVoters

Do you help Georgians register to vote? Make sure you know the facts. 🗳️ Join GJP for a FREE virtual training on Tuesday, August 18 at 12 PM covering voting eligibility for people with felony convictions, and how to confidently answer questions that may come up during voter outreach. 📅 August 18 | 12 PM 💻 Virtual 🔗 Register at the link in bio. Know the rules. Share accurate information. Help eligible Georgians exercise their right to vote.

Georgia Justice Project mourns the passing of Rev. Dr. Joanna Moseley Adams, whose faith, leadership, and commitment to justice were essential to GJP’s founding and growth. In the early 1980s, while serving at Central Presbyterian Church, Joanna challenged her congregation to respond to poverty and homelessness in Atlanta. Her preaching provided the pastoral encouragement and theological provocation that inspired attorney John Pickens to use his vocation in service of justice, a calling that ultimately led him to leave corporate law and establish Georgia Justice Project in 1986. But Joanna’s commitment didn’t stop there. For decades, she remained a fierce and loyal supporter of GJP’s work of justice, rehabilitation, and redemption. She chaired fundraising efforts, encouraged her congregations to give their time and resources, and helped open doors that brought GJP credibility and stability during its earliest years. Her husband, Al, has also carried that commitment forward through decades of board service and volunteerism. As we celebrate GJP’s 40th anniversary, we are especially grateful for Joanna’s extraordinary place in our story. Her impact is simply too immense to count. We extend our deepest condolences to Al, her family, friends, congregations, and the countless people and communities touched by her life and ministry. In memory of Rev. Dr. Joanna Moseley Adams 1944–2026

Last week, our interns and staff visited the Equal Justice Initiative’s Legacy Museum in Montgomery, where history challenges us to confront the lasting impact of slavery, racial injustice, and mass incarceration in America. At Georgia Justice Project, we believe understanding our history is essential to creating a more just future. Experiences like these deepen our commitment to removing barriers, expanding opportunity, and walking alongside the people and communities we serve. #EJI #LegacyMuseum #SecondChances #CommunityDriven

Beginning July 1, HB 162 will modernize Georgia’s First Offender Act, marking an important step toward expanding second chances for eligible individuals across the state. The new law automatically seals eligible First Offender records at sentencing, helping reduce barriers to employment, housing, education, and other opportunities while ensuring the First Offender Act functions as intended. To help attorneys, judges, clerks, service providers, and impacted individuals prepare for these changes, we created a dedicated HB 162 Updates & Resources page featuring: • Frequently Asked Questions • Educational guides • Attorney resources • Pro se (self-help) materials • Sample motions and forms Learn more and access the resources here: https://bit.ly/HB162Updates

Our office will be closed for Summer Break from June 29 – July 3. If you need information about our services, resources, or upcoming events while we’re away, please visit GJP.org. We look forward to serving you when we return on Monday, July 6. Have a safe and enjoyable holiday week!

This Juneteenth, we’re highlighting the voices of the people who make our work possible. In this original reflection, GJP’s Outreach & Reentry Associate, Dominique Harris, @coach_niqkoreal explores the long journey from the promise of freedom to the ongoing pursuit of opportunity and justice. Dominique brings lived experience, passion, and purpose to his work every day, helping individuals navigate reentry and move forward with dignity and hope. As we commemorate Juneteenth, we invite you to listen, reflect, and honor the resilience of those who continue to shape a more just future.

Today is Election Day in Georgia. 🗳️ The decisions made at the ballot box help shape policies and systems that affect our communities every day - from the courts and legal systems to access to opportunity, housing, employment, and public services. If you’re eligible to vote and haven’t yet cast your ballot, make your plan and head to the polls. Every vote is an opportunity to have a voice in the future of our communities. 🗣️Remember- If your felony sentence is complete, YOU CAN VOTE. Visit GJP.org/Voting to learn more.

Need help clearing an eligible Fulton County record? Join GJP, the Fulton County District Attorney’s Office, and Trinity Presbyterian Church for a FREE Record Clearing Event & Job Resource Fair. ✅ Walk-ins welcome (no registration required) ✅ Bring a valid ID if you are seeking record assistance ✅ Employment resources and career support available onsite Please note: Assistance is limited to eligible cases resolved in Fulton County Superior Court (typically felony-level cases). We look forward to seeing you there!

We are hiring a Staff Attorney to join our Records Team. 🗣️ This role is an opportunity to directly support individuals navigating barriers caused by arrest and conviction records while helping advance systemic change across Georgia. If you’re passionate about advocacy, reentry, and people-centered legal work, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now at GJP.org/careers.

Reflecting on an incredible evening celebrating 40 years of impact at the 2026 Grass Roots Justice Awards. What a night! Last night, we revealed that GJP is now 97% of the way toward completing our Catalyst for Change Capital Campaign — bringing us even closer to expanding access to opportunity for justice-impacted Georgians across the state. Thank you to everyone who showed up, supported, and celebrated with us. More moments from the evening are still to come. Want to help us cross the finish line? Visit GJP.org/donate.

Today at the Georgia State Capitol, we celebrated the signing of SB 207 — Expanding access to occupational licensing opportunities for Georgians with a record. This milestone reflects four years of collaboration, advocacy, and persistence. We’re especially grateful to Sen. Brian Strickland for his leadership and commitment to helping remove barriers to stable careers and economic opportunity across Georgia. Thank you to the many partners who helped move this work forward alongside GJP. @atlchamber @gachamber1915 @unifyusaofficial @faithandfreedomcoalition @2renforce @georgiaopportunity @gapolitical

📣 GJP is seeking legal volunteers for an upcoming Pardon Clinic on May 16. This is a great opportunity for attorneys, legal professionals, and law students to work directly with clients seeking to overcome barriers tied to their criminal history through Georgia’s pardon process. Training, materials, and onsite support will be provided by GJP staff. Sign up to volunteer: https://bit.ly/RecordsClinicVolunteers

Yesterday at the Georgia State Capitol, GJP joined advocates, partners, and supporters as Governor Kemp signed HB 162 into law — a major step forward in modernizing Georgia’s First Offender Act. This legislation will help ensure that successfully completed First Offender sentences remain sealed, expanding access to housing, employment, and opportunity for countless Georgians. We’re proud to celebrate this moment and the collaboration that made it possible. Stay tuned for resources and information about what HB 162 means for impacted communities across Georgia. #GeorgiaJusticeProject #HB162 #SecondChances #FirstOffenderAct #FairChance

As we close out Second Chance Month, we’re reminded what this work makes possible. Senior Staff Attorney Anna Szatkowski shares the story of a client who, after serving 17 years of a 25-year sentence, was recently able to return home under the Survivor Justice Act - with a clean record and a second chance. Stories like this are why second chances matter. Have questions? Reach out to our dynamic team to find out more about our work and paths to second chances. ✨

As Second Chance Month comes to a close, we’re reminded what this work is really about. For our Davidson Impact Fellow, Jalyssa Hobbs, second chances mean recognizing a person’s humanity—and their ability to move forward without being defined by their past. When barriers to employment, housing, and opportunity are removed, real pathways forward are created. #SecondChanceMonth

🗣️Early voting in Georgia has begun. 🗳️ Now through May 15 🗓️ Election Day: May 19 Early voting locations are open across the state, with many counties also offering weekend hours. Make a plan, check your polling location, and make your voice heard. 🗳️ Find your early polling location and hours by visiting mvp.sos.ga.gov 🔗 #GJPVotes

Wishing Nakyshia Fralin all the best as she closes out her internship with GJP and prepares for the next chapter. Nakyshia brought passion, leadership, and a deep commitment to justice to her work here, and we’re grateful for the impact she’s made. We can’t wait to see all that she accomplishes next. Good luck on the bar and beyond! ⚖️✨

What does a second chance mean? 🌅 For our staff attorney Kat Lake, it’s about redemption, mercy, and grace. This Second Chance Month, we’re reflecting on what it means to create real pathways forward…and why this work matters. #SecondChanceMonth #SecondChances #GeorgiaJusticeProject

🚨 Georgia Voter Registration Deadline: April 20 🚨 If you or someone you know has a felony conviction, don’t assume you can’t vote. 👉 In Georgia, you can vote once your sentence is complete (including probation or parole). 👉 Even if you still owe fines and fees, you may still be eligible. The most important step? Check your status TODAY. 🔗 https://mvp.sos.ga.gov/ Not sure where you stand? Contact your probation officer or DCS to confirm your sentence completion. Your voice matters. Don’t sit this one out. #GeorgiaVotes #SecondChance #KnowYourRights #VoterRegistration #GJP

THREE bills. One session. Real progress. All 3️⃣ of GJP’s 2026 priorities have passed the General Assembly and are now headed to the Governor’s desk. ✍️ Expanding second chances. Reducing barriers. Opening doors. Grateful for the partners, advocates, and legislators who made this possible. More to come!

✨Big news from the Georgia State Capitol - all THREE of GJP’s 2026 priorities have passed the General Assembly and are now headed to the Governor’s desk! Here’s what that means: ☑️HB 162 – Modernizes the First Offender Act by sealing records upon successful completion of a sentence, helping ensure a true second chance ☑️HB 535 – Reduces unnecessary time in custody by addressing how time is calculated for probation revocation hearings ☑️SB 207 – Expands access to careers through occupational licensing changes across 40+ boards for people with a record This is meaningful progress for communities across Georgia. We’re grateful to the partners, advocates, and legislators who made this possible! 🙌 More to come!

After receiving the Ben F. Johnson Jr. Public Service Award in 2025, GJP’s Executive Director, Doug Ammar, returned this year to celebrate a longtime friend and partner, former Chief Justice Harold Melton, as he received the 2026 honor from Georgia State University College of Law. Justice Melton has been a dedicated volunteer and partner to Georgia Justice Project for many years. Also pictured are Kimberly Melton, a former GJP volunteer and board member, and M. Brian Blake, President of Georgia State University. We’re grateful for leaders who continue to support and advance this work.

Big news out of the Georgia House - HB 162 heads to the Governor for signing! 🎉 This legislation will make sealing of First Offender cases automatic at sentencing, helping ensure the First Offender Act can truly function as a second chance. Grateful for the leadership of Rep. Leesa Hagan of House District 156 and all who supported this effort. 📲 Stay informed! Sign up for action alerts at GJP.org!

🚨 Policy Update from Under the Gold Dome Momentum is building. Three key bills supported by GJP are moving forward this legislative session and now await final action in the House: ✔️ HB 162 – Modernizes the First Offender Act to help ensure a true second chance by sealing cases at sentencing ✔️ HB 535 – Addresses probation revocation and how time served is calculated ✔️ SB 207 – Expands access to fair chance occupational licensing and record clearing These are common-sense reforms that move Georgia closer to a smarter, fairer justice system. 📲 Stay informed and get involved! Sign up for action alerts at GJP.org #SmarterJustice #SecondChances #GJP

Our Social Services team doesn’t always get the spotlight — but their impact is everywhere. 💙 Today we’re celebrating the incredible social workers and the team who walk alongside our clients every day: Zandria, Atoyia, Rachel, Lori, and Dominique. One common misconception about social workers is that they’re supposed to be “miracle workers.” The truth? Their work isn’t about fixing people’s problems — it’s about walking with people, helping them recognize their own strength, and connecting them with the resources they need to move forward. At GJP, our social workers help remove barriers, support families, and ensure our clients have the tools to build stability and opportunity. And while they spend their days uplifting others, here are a few fun facts about the amazing people behind the work: ✨ Rachel went on a blind date in Zambia…and married the guy. 💍 ✨ Zandria is a rare Atlanta native in a city full of transplants. 🤯 ✨ Atoyia helped write a book about her journey of resilience after brain surgery to encourage others facing challenges. 📖 Check it out: https://amzn.to/4rt92oU We’re grateful for this team and the care, patience, and dedication they bring to our community every single day. Help us show some love to our Social Services team! 👏 #GeorgiaJusticeProject #SocialWorkers #CommunityCare #SecondChances #StrengthsBasedApproach

We were honored to welcome Davidson College students to the GJP office today to learn more about our work. During a conversation with our Executive Director, Doug Ammar about the War on Drugs in the 1980s, one student’s thoughtful perspective stood out and sparked a meaningful dialogue about policy, history, and justice. It’s always encouraging to see the next generation of legal minds engaging deeply with these issues. Conversations like this are exactly why our work continues to matter.

Advocates gathered at the Capitol last week for Justice Day to meet with lawmakers and discuss key legislation impacting Georgia communities. Now that Crossover Day has passed, what happens next? Join tomorrow’s (March 10) virtual panel hosted by the Justice Reform Partnership to hear updates on the bills still moving through the General Assembly - including legislation supported by Georgia Justice Project - and learn how you can stay engaged. Register: https://justicereformpartnership.org/tjt/ Join via Zoom: https://bit.ly/3ODdaFk #GeorgiaPolicy #SecondChances #GeorgiaJusticeProject #CrossoverDay

A criminal record shouldn’t be a lifelong barrier to opportunity. Our volunteer attorneys help clients take the next step toward employment, housing, and stability through our Criminal Records Clinics. Interested in helping? Sign up at the link in our bio.

Join us at Justice Day 2026 on February 24 in Atlanta! We’ll be on site alongside partners and advocates for a day of storytelling, solidarity, and action at the State Capitol. Our team will be there sharing updates and connecting with the community. We hope to see you there! Registration link 🔗 is in our bio

Save the Date! We’re celebrating 40 years of justice in action. ⚖️🫶 The Grass Roots Justice Awards returns May 14 as we kick off our 40th anniversary celebration. Join us as we honor impact, leadership, and second chances across Georgia. More details coming soon!

🎥 ICYMI: 2026 Legislative Kickoff Missed our Legislative Kickoff webinar? Here’s a quick clip from the conversation on advancing smarter justice in Georgia. From licensing reform to modernizing Georgia’s First Offender Act and implementing the Survivor Justice Act—we’re focused on policy that builds real second chances. ▶️ Watch the full webinar: gjp.org/legislativekickoff2026￼ #GeorgiaJustice #SecondChances #PolicyForThePeople #GJPAdvocacy #LegislativeKickoff2026 SmartJustice

Today we honor Dr. King not only in remembrance, but in action. The work of justice is not abstract…it shows up in courtrooms, communities, and second chances. We remain committed to bending the arc through advocacy, accountability, and hope.

Tune in TODAY at 4:00 PM on 11Alive. Our Executive Director, Doug Ammar, sits down with @11alive to discuss a recent court ruling reversal made possible by Georgia’s Survivor Justice Act—a law that allows courts to reconsider sentences where domestic violence and survival were not fully considered. This is what policy in action looks like. 📺 Watch TODAY (Weds, 1/14) at 4 PM.

What does reentry really look like in Georgia? Our Legal Director, Brenda Smeeton, sat down with @cbsnewsatlanta to talk reentry, resources, and second chances. 📺 Watch tonight at 11 PM! (Airs Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2026 @ 11pm ET)

🗣️ Calling all changemakers! 💥 Join us for Georgia Justice Project’s 2026 Legislative Kickoff on Wednesday, January 21st at 12PM (virtual) as we unveil bold legislative priorities to build a more just Georgia. ✅ Expand Fair Chance Licensing for People with Records ✅ Strengthen & Streamline Record Clearing Laws ✅ Advance the Survivor Justice Act Implementation ✅ Push for Smarter, More Effective Court Notification Reforms Your voice matters. Let’s move the needle - together. 🔗 Register now via the link in bio and be part of the movement. #JusticeForGeorgia #SmartJustice #LegislativeKickoff2026 #SecondChances #SurvivorJustice

This year’s Holiday Celebration was pure joy — and you made it possible. 🎁✨ Because of your generous donations, we were able to bring holiday happiness to the incredible families we walk alongside all year. A special thank you to our longtime partners at @trinitypresatlanta and @itsawrapcateringllc for volunteering with heart and care. And a huge shoutout to our Social Services team, whose year-round dedication ensures families feel supported not just during the holidays, but every day. It was a festive day full of community, laughter, and love. ❤️ Again, thank you for your support!

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