Justice Advocates Cohort

El Justice Advocates Cohort (JAC) is a program designed to equip people directly impacted by the criminal legal system with the skills needed to be effective change makers. In bi-weekly workshops over several months, participants will learn about the legislative process in Missouri while organizing advocacy efforts around their chosen policy goals.

Now Seeking 12 Participants for the Pilot Cohort:

• Based in the St. Louis region
• Personally impacted by the criminal legal system (either formerly incarcerated or have an incarcerated loved one)
• Eager to start advocating for change in Missouri’s criminal legal system

Participation stipend: $50 per class attended ($450 maximum per participant)

Program Schedule & Details

• Bi-weekly meetings on Sunday afternoons, January through May 2026
• We will alternate meeting in person 2:30 – 5:00 p.m. (STL or STL County) and meeting virtually 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.
• Transportation assistance provided as needed
• 1-2 hours per week of independent work outside of class
• 2 additional weekday visits to the MO State Capitol

The program will culminate in small group projects with groups assigned based on interests. Deliverables may include a policy memo, a meeting with a lawmaker or other stakeholder, a strategic planning document (such as a messaging guide or power map) and a final presentation.

Questions about the program? Email Gwen Smith-Moore (Criminal Justice Policy Manager) at: [email protected]

Ready to apply? Click the button below to fill out our form, and we will be in touch soon!

We would also love your help with spreading the word about this exciting new opportunity; you can download and print our program flyer aquí. Thank you for sharing with your networks!