Justice Advocates Cohort - Empower Missouri

The 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.

The pilot cohort was held in 2026 in St. Louis, and we’ll be announcing details for our next cohort soon!

JAC participants should be:

Based in Missouri (region varies for each cohort)
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
We will alternate meeting in person and meeting virtually
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.

Application details for our next cohort will be announced soon. Questions in the meantime? Email Gwen Smith-Moore (Criminal Justice Policy Manager) at: [email protected]