California Justice Leaders AmeriCorps

California Justice Leaders (CJL) is a first-of-its-kind AmeriCorps initiative that places formerly incarcerated and system-impacted young adults as peer navigators and mentors to help justice-involved youth and young adults successfully re-enter California communities

Program Purpose

CJL addresses the barriers many young people face after contact with the justice system — such as finding jobs, securing safe housing, accessing education, and rebuilding relationships. By recruiting credible messengers who have successfully transitioned back into their communities, the program provides guidance, mentorship, and practical support to help mentees navigate re-entry