Vermonters For Criminal Justice Reform (VCJR)

Mission: To end unnecessary incarceration, end the use of out of state prisons, improve access to services like mental health and drug treatment, promote alternatives to incarceration, and keep communities healthy and safe.

Vermonters for Criminal Justice Reform is an educational and advocacy non-profit aimed at developing a more coordinated criminal justice system that values the humanity of all people, restores relationships, and uses incarceration as a last resort for public safety.

We work to raise awareness of criminal justice issues in Vermont–especially the impact of mass incarceration–and better alternatives for reducing crime. We speak to groups around the state, organize educational events, and use social and traditional media to get the word out. Our Stories Project uses video and print media to highlight the experiences of directly affected people, and we facilitate connections especially among family members of incarcerated people. Finally, we work with policy makers and community leaders to change policies and statutes.