A local nonprofit working to help those facing the impacts of incarceration used a recent gathering to recommit to its advocacy and supportive services.
OAR of Arlington, Alexandria and Falls Church held its 17th annual Liberation Gathering yesterday (Thursday), providing both an update on activities and a call for future efforts.
“We journey with individuals both before and after incarceration. We meet people where they are, offering support that is responsive to their unique goals and needs,” OAR board chair Alejandra Santaolalla said at the hour-long online forum, which attracted about 70 participants.
Caroline Jones, an OAR board member, echoed that theme in her remarks.
“We envision a safe and thriving community where those impacted by the legal system experience and enjoy equal civil and human rights,” she said.
Faith community members who volunteered in Arlington’s jail founded OAR in 1974. It based its practices on the Offender Aid & Restoration movement, launched in 1968 by residents in Charlottesville following a prison riot.
In addition to working directly with those facing or emerging from incarceration, the organization also advocates for policies and services to support them and reduce the overall incarceration rate.
Jones shared the story of “Camille” — a pseudonym used to protect privacy — who was facing 1,000 hours of court-ordered community service and was overwhelmed by it. Working with OAR staff, she found an organization to support and, over time, immersed herself in volunteer activities, managing to “turn discouragement into real purpose.”
“What began as an obligation evolved into something more,” Jones said. “She took pride in completing her hours, she was proud she showed up.”
Camille Watkin, another OAR board member, is the inmate-services coordinator in the Community Readiness Unit of the Arlington County Detention Facility. She has seen firsthand how the organization’s efforts have impacted those about to exit incarceration.
“Individuals began to build a path forward as they return to communities,” Watkin said.
Watkin told the story of “Malik” — also a pseudonym — who through OAR and detention-staff efforts was able to create a plan and surround himself with people to help.
The result was “turning uncertainty into positivity,” Watkin said.
That is the goal, said Katy Steinbruck, OAR’s deputy director and a 25-year staff member.
“It’s not a perfect journey, there’s always setbacks,” Steinbruck said, but “people don’t feel alone, people feel treated with dignity.”
OAR executive director Elizabeth Jones Valderrama said the event had been held in many formats through the years, always drawing both new and longtime supporters.
“Many of you have been with us the entire 17,” said Valderrama, who has been employed by the organization for 20 years and has served as its executive director for the past decade.
Going forward, the organization will continue to address “the deep need for care, connection and justice,” Valderrama said at the event.
