OUR MISSION AND HISTORY
At Inside Circle, we embrace a simple yet profound question: What if the key to real change lies in building relationships rather than reacting out of fear?
our impact
We’re dedicated to creating spaces where individuals affected by the justice system—both youth and adults—can embark on a journey of healing, discover their purpose, and lead lives filled with meaningful service to others. Inside Circle firmly believes that true strength emerges from embracing vulnerability, not resorting to violence. Our experiences have taught us that those who have walked through the shadows of trauma possess a unique power to guide others toward light and recovery.
Our mission is to empower system-impacted people to lead lasting change from within by providing support, opportunities and training for incarcerated and formerly incarcerated people to heal and serve both themselves and others. Through this work, we aim to nurture healthier individuals, build stronger communities, and foster more compassionate systems, effectively reducing the cycle of re-offense and various forms of violence—be it physical, emotional, or psychological—in our society.
EDWIN ORTIz
INSIDE CIRCLE PARTICIPANT
…I was able to shed a wall that I built over 30 years ago. Inside Circle is really powerful…For men like myself who have been marginalized and spent decades in the prison system, its transforming our lives.
What started as a response to a tragic prison riot that resulted in one death and several injuries, transformed into a beacon of hope and change that is now known as Inside Circle.
1996
Inside Circle has a powerful origin story that began inside the walls of a prison back in 1996. Patrick Nolan, along with a few supportive figures including a prison chaplain and an Arts-in-Corrections teacher, gathered key influencers within the prisoner community together to explore a collective alternative, grounded in their lived reality. They formed a multi-racial circle committed to relentless truth-telling, healing, and change.
Together, they formed a unique group that transcended racial divides, committed to openness, healing, and positive transformation.
This group, initially a forum for communication among rival factions within the prison, evolved into something much deeper. This was not just a support group; it was a transformative circle that belonged to each participant equally. experience was highly charged, extremely vulnerable, and profoundly healing. This laid the groundwork for what Inside Circle would become.
TODAY
This story isn’t just about the past; it’s a call to action. By volunteering, donating, or simply sharing this story, you can be a part of this incredible journey of healing, empowerment, and change. Inside Circle is on the cusp of significant expansion, as we’re being asked to bring our healing work to communities and prisons across the country. Join us in making a difference and supporting the continued growth and impact of Inside Circle.
In 2018, a core group of individuals, stepped forward to lead the organization from the outside. This marked the formal beginning of Inside Circle as we know it today.
SUPPORT OUR WORK
Join us in making a difference and supporting the
continued growth and impact of Inside Circle.