On October 29, 2026, community leaders, justice professionals, nonprofit organizations, and faith-based partners gathered at Child & Family Charities in Lansing for our monthly 100 Families Initiative Alliance Meeting, focused on the theme Unity in Justice.
We were honored to welcome three panelists who shared their perspectives on the challenges facing justice-impacted individuals and families:
- Elias Willian – Ripple Effect Participatory Dedense
- Samuel Krease – Ingham County Jail
- David Hudgens – Peckham
- Melinda Williams – Ripple Effect Participatory Defense
Justice, Compassion, and Community Collaboration
Justice involvement can create significant challenges for individuals and families, including housing instability, unemployment, family separation, and barriers to accessing essential services.
Our conversation explored how community organizations, employers, justice professionals, and faith-based partners can work together to address these challenges.
A central message of our discussion was that successful reintegration requires more than a second chance—it requires a community willing to provide support, resources, and opportunities.
Through collaboration, we can help individuals rebuild their lives, strengthen families, and reduce the barriers that keep people trapped in cycles of crisis.
Moving From Conversation to Action
Our Unity in Justice gathering reminded us that no single organization can meet every need.
By strengthening partnerships, sharing resources, and coordinating services through HopeHub, we can create more effective pathways toward stability.
We extend our sincere appreciation to our panelists, participating organizations, and Child & Family Charities for hosting this important conversation.
Together, we can build a community where justice, compassion, and opportunity work hand in hand.
100 Families Initiative | United Against Poverty–MI
Moving Families From Crisis to Stability—and Ultimately to Thriving!
