Our Stories - Hope Act

Holly: Marriage Through Long-Term Incarceration

Holly calls theirs an “inside outside marriage.” But she does not describe Corbyn as someone whose life is on hold until he comes home. To her, he is her husband, a father, a leader in their family, and someone who continues to give love, encouragement, and support – even from inside.

Corbyn: Transformation, Community, and the Right to Come Home

His story reminds us that transformation is not simply about becoming a different person in prison. It is about having the opportunity to live differently—to be connected to family, to contribute to community, to love and be loved, and to build a life with purpose

Robert: The Father I’ve Had to Find

The hardest part of having a loved one incarcerated is knowing the untapped potential of your relationship. Seeing that there’s so much love sitting in plain sight but just out of reach.

Lorrie: Incarceration Changes a Family

For Lorrie Schwarz, incarceration did not only take her daughter away. It changed the shape of her entire family.

Lorinda: Seeing the Other Side of Incarceration

For Lorinda, ending life without the possibility of parole would not erase the past. It would create space for accountability, healing, relationships, and the possibility of becoming whole again.

Aloeng Vang: Building a Future From Inside

Aloeng Vang was 19 when he was sentenced to life without the possibility of parole in Minnesota. He is 32 now.

Julie’s Story : Facing Cancer Behind Bars

Julie’s journey is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit. Even in the most challenging circumstances, hope can emerge. Her story encourages us to support those who face illness in confinement and to advocate for compassionate care for all individuals, regardless of their circumstances.

Heather Horst : A Case for Accountability and Second Chances

After nearly ten years of incarceration, Heather Horst represents a clear example of rehabilitation grounded in accountability, service, and leadership. Her experience challenges assumptions about who transforms in prison—and whether the justice system recognizes that transformation when it occurs.