Meet
Mary Moran

Thirty years ago, I worked with women on welfare, many of whom had been caught in the system. During this time, my youngest child, who had just turned 17, found himself in trouble and was sentenced to 20 years in prison. This experience left me devastated and fearful, as I struggled to find ways to help him. Driven by the desire to support my son, I began researching how to assist him both while he was incarcerated and upon his return home.

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In the process of my research, I realized the profound need to help others who were transitioning from prison back into society, as well as to support their families in advocating for them both inside and outside the system. It became clear to me that the more knowledge one has, the greater their responsibility to share and support others. Life presents us with challenges that can either break us or make us stronger.

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For 13 and a half years, I witnessed my son's journey through a prison system that stripped away dignity and reinforced negative self-perceptions. As family members, we too experienced a form of imprisonment, with our lives on hold and a deep sense of guilt for our freedom while our loved ones remained confined. I often remind my son that his experiences, no matter how painful, have served a greater purpose. By lifting myself out of depression and dedicating my efforts to improve his life, both inside and out, I found renewed purpose.

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My son is one of the fortunate ones who chose to rebuild his life and never return to the system. He is driven by the love and aspirations he holds for his two children. I firmly believe that each of us must look within and ask ourselves, "What do I need to transform my life, and am I willing to commit to the changes required to find peace and remain free?"