The Voice of the Formerly Incarcerated
We are a statewide movement rooted in 7 locations across Michigan, employing a workforce almost entirely comprised of formerly incarcerated and system-impacted individuals. Our organization is built on the belief that those closest to the challenges hold the keys to real solutions.
We represent the over 2 million Michigan families impacted by the criminal legal system. Collectively, our staff carries over 500 years of lived experience in state and federal correctional institutions. This lived experience fuels our commitment to dismantling systemic barriers, centering authentic solutions, and amplifying the voices of those too often silenced.
At Nation Outside, we are more than advocates—we are change makers. From trauma-informed peer-led reentry programs to policy innovation and community empowerment, we’re rewriting the narrative of system-impacted lives.
Plant the Seeds. Change the Story.
Some return home to open arms.
Others return to silence.
Together, we can decide what happens next.
📍 Taqueria El Rey (2nd Floor), Detroit
📅 Friday, September 25, 2026 | 5:00 PM
Featuring the premiere of What Grace Leaves Behind
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🌿 A Celebration of What Becomes Possible
This year’s Seeds of Change is a celebration of new beginnings—of what becomes possible when grace shows up in the form of opportunity, dignity, and support.
Together, we will gather in community to honor that transformation through:
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🎬 A special screening of What Grace Leaves Behind
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🌟 The Change Maker Awards
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🕊️ The Everett Seay Light Keeper Award
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🎶 An evening of connection, music, and shared purpose
This is more than an event—it is a reflection of what happens when people are met with belief instead of barriers.
Our Vision
To transform the landscape of reentry and justice in the U.S. by centering lived experience as expertise.
We envision a world where people impacted by the criminal legal system lead the movement to create lasting change—breaking barriers, building futures, and ensuring that every person has the opportunity to heal, thrive, and lead.
Our Mission
Is to advance policies and practices that create transformative systems of support for individuals, families, and communities impacted by the criminal legal system.
Statewide Impact, Lived Experience, Lasting Change
Our Services
See how lived experience fuels our programs to break barriers and build stronger communities
Trauma-Informed Peer-Led Reentry (TIPLR)
A groundbreaking program that connects justice-impacted individuals with peer mentors who have lived experience, offering holistic support, transportation, and resources to build stability and success after incarceration.
Peer Navigator Certification
We provide specialized training and certification for individuals with lived experience to become peer navigators, equipping them with the skills and credentials to guide others through reentry and access critical community resources.
Community Engagement
Through education, advocacy, and grassroots organizing, we empower justice-impacted individuals and communities to drive systemic change and influence policies that impact reentry, housing, employment, and public safety.
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