A former MoDOC Correctional Officer at Missouri's South Central Correctional Center (SCCC), Dena Notz, made the courageous decision to resign after facing relentless challenges and systemic injustices within the prison system. Known as a "HUG A THUG" by her peers—a derogatory term used to ridicule officers who prioritize integrity and adhere strictly to protocols—Dena chose to stand firm in her commitment to justice and humanity. Her experience illuminated the urgent need for systemic reform, leading her to establish *Collectively Changing Corrections (CCC)*. This advocacy initiative collaborates with like-minded organizations to challenge the injustices within the Missouri Department of Corrections (MODOC), striving to restore fairness, accountability, and dignity to the system. Through CCC, Dena Notz is paving the way for meaningful change, refusing to let the status quo define her commitment to justice.

MODOC SCCC has had a major problem with drugs coming into the facility and there’s no accountability and oversight. In Unit 6 alone there have been over 60 overdoses. Yet there’s been zero accountability from administration or staff. The lack of intervention not only puts the lives of those inside at risk but also shows a broader lack of addressing the root of the problem. Families and advocates are demanding answers as lives are on the line and the cycle of substance abuse and systemic neglect continues unchecked.

The corruption within MODOC SCCC is evident in its complete lack of accountability, which allowed Census Bureau agents to unknowingly interview prisoners at SCCC. This occurred allegedly, because of a flawed DOC number selection system, which resulted in agents speaking to inmates who were not intended to be part of the census process. The failure to properly track and identify prisoners highlighted deeper issues of mismanagement and oversight within the facility. Some prisoners names and DOC # can not be located in Missouri Inmate Locator Search, which cause a security breach.

Missouri courts have faced scrutiny over alleged corruption, with accusations ranging from partiality in judicial rulings to systemic bias that disproportionately affects marginalized communities. Concerns have been raised regarding the influence of political and corporate interests within the judiciary, leading to claims that justice is often skewed in favor of those with power and resources. Reports indicate instances where decisions in civil and criminal cases seem influenced by factors outside the facts of the case, leading to a lack of trust among citizens in the judicial system’s impartiality. This perceived corruption has prompted advocacy groups and individuals to call for reforms aimed at enhancing transparency, ensuring fair trials, and reinforcing the accountability of judges and prosecutors to uphold justice without prejudice.

At MoDOC South Central Correctional Center (SCCC), numerous policies have been consistently broken, contributing to the neglect and mistreatment of incarcerated individuals. One of the most pressing issues involves the insufficient portions of food served by AraMark, the contracted food service provider. Prisoners are routinely deprived of adequate nutrition, which exacerbates existing health concerns and further undermines their well-being. Additionally, the facility has been marred by medical neglect, where prisoners’ medical needs are not promptly or adequately addressed, leading to deteriorating health conditions. Officers often engage in misconduct, including retaliatory actions against prisoners who speak out about these injustices. This cycle of neglect and retaliation creates an environment of fear, where prisoners are left vulnerable to both physical and emotional harm without appropriate recourse or accountability.

Healing and Mending Ministry in St. Louis, MO, is a faith-based nonprofit dedicated to addressing critical issues such as domestic violence, human trafficking, and mental health, providing a lifeline for men, women, and families in need. Through a holistic approach, the ministry offers compassionate support and resources to survivors, empowering them to reclaim their lives. With a focus on healing both emotional and physical wounds, the ministry creates safe spaces for individuals to heal from trauma, rebuild self-worth, and strengthen their families. By tackling these issues head-on, Healing and Mending Ministry serves as a beacon of hope and restoration in the St. Louis community, fostering resilience and transformation for those affected by these challenges.

Tywea Anderson is an inspiring entrepreneur and motivational speaker who transformed her life after spending time in prison. Upon her release, she harnessed her experiences to empower others, becoming a powerful voice across various platforms. Twyea founded *I AM PURPOSE*, a women's support ministry dedicated to uplifting and guiding formerly incarcerated women. Through this ministry, she provides critical resources, encouragement, and sustainable support, helping women navigate the challenges of reentry and rebuild their lives. Her journey from incarceration to entrepreneurship serves as a testament to resilience, second chances, and the importance of purpose-driven living.

The Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) is grappling with severe staffing shortages, leaving correctional officers overworked and under-resourced, contributing to a growing crisis within the prison system. Simultaneously, a drug epidemic is ravaging the facilities, with alarming cases of both inmates and officers experiencing overdoses. This dire situation underscores the urgent need for legislative intervention, such as HB 5219, a pending bill seeking sponsorship to introduce *Time Served Good Credit*. If enacted, this bill would allow incarcerated individuals to earn credit toward early release, providing them with a tangible incentive to engage in positive behavior and reducing the likelihood of reoffending. XO is advocating for both systemic understaffing and promoting rehabilitation through HB 5219, for Illinois to mitigate recidivism, improve safety, and offer second chances for individuals re-entering society.