What does Inside Circle do?

Inside Circle is a nonprofit organization based in Sacramento, California, founded in 1996. It focuses on empowering system-impacted individuals, including incarcerated and formerly incarcerated people, through peer-guided healing circles. The organization aims to reduce recidivism and foster social-emotional literacy to eliminate violence in prisons and communities. Inside Circle offers ongoing weekly healing circles in adult prisons and juvenile facilities, providing safe spaces for emotional expression and self-discovery. Its programs include the Youth and Emerging (YAE) Program, which supports currently and formerly incarcerated youth with life skills and emotional support. The organization also provides bridging programs for families affected by incarceration and technical assistance for building partnerships between justice systems and community organizations. Since its inception, Inside Circle has positively impacted thousands of participants, with surveys indicating significant benefits and a 0% recidivism rate within three years after involvement. The organization is dedicated to promoting systemic change through awareness, education, and advocacy.