From John Jay College Institute for Justice and Opportunity
submitted by David Geiger
We are excited to introduce you to the See Us, Support Us (SUSU) initiative, a powerful awareness-raising campaign dedicated to providing a supportive space for children impacted by parental incarceration. Throughout this month of October, SUSU will be shedding light on the critical topic of how we can best assist these children in preparing for and navigating their parents' reentry into their lives. Astonishingly, one in 14 children in the United States has an incarcerated parent, and many of them will soon witness their parents' return to the community. While reentry is undoubtedly a time of joy and hope, it is also a complex and challenging period for these families.
Follow See Us, Support Us (SUSU) to gain access to invaluable insights and recommendations from individuals who have firsthand experience with parental reentry and experts in the field. We encourage you to sign up for the SUSU Network Newsletter and explore an array of resources designed to assist families and individuals supporting children both before, during, and after a parent's incarceration. You can find these resources at www.susu-osborne.org.
We kindly request that you help spread the word about the SUSU art contest, an opportunity for youth and young adults affected by parental incarceration to share their artistic talents and stories. More information can be found on the attached flyer.
As a highlight of SUSU month, the Osborne Association extends a warm invitation to you for our event titled "Reentry Through a Child's Eyes" on October 11, 2023. This event is specially designed for professionals in the criminal justice and reentry fields, those dedicated to serving children and families, as well as policymakers. It promises to be an insightful and thought-provoking occasion that will deepen our understanding of the challenges faced by these children and how we can support them. Please take a moment to RSVP for this free, in-person event.
Your participation and support are crucial in making a positive impact on the lives of children affected by parental incarceration. Together, we can create a more inclusive and empathetic community for these children and their families.