Seattle Clemency Project

Re-Entry and Mentoring Program: Re-Entry and Mentoring Program: The Reentry and Mentoring Program seeks to help each client heal and prosper by assisting in the creation of individualized reentry plans that include referrals to housing, employment, counseling, addiction treatment, training/education, and pro bono legal support. The program begins when the case is being prepared by pro bono layers to seek early release from prison and continues through release, ensuring each person has a solid support system throughout their transition back into the community. We provide individualized support upon reentry, connect clients with other organizations for targeted support needs and conduct twice monthly mentoring sessions that offer resources and training for participants. In 2024: 49 people received housing placements; 25 people received employment assistance; 33 people received transportation assistance; 22 people received communication assistance; 8 people received education assistance; 23 people received basic needs assistance; 5 people experienced family reunification.

Early Release from Prison Program: Our early release program matches individuals who are good candidates for early release from prison through either the clemency, prosecutor-initiated resentencing or the juvenile parole board processes. Legal counsel is not appointed by the government to represent individuals who cannot afford a lawyer through these processes, so having an advocate is essential for getting meaningful review and relief. In 2024, we screened approximately 111 individuals seeking a pro bono attorney and matched 19 incarcerated individuals with pro bono attorneys to go through clemency, prosecutor-initiated resentencing, or the juvenile parole board process. Additionally, we supported approximately 66 pro bono attorneys with active cases. By the end of 2024, 9 people were released via our Early Release Program.