The Ex-Offender
Welcome to Ex Offender Magazine online, a magazine for those who are currently incarcerated in the United Prison system and or the Department of Corrections. The magazine is for anyone who has been or is currently imprisoned, as well as those who have loved ones or family members who are incarcerated.
About Us
The Ex-Offender Magazine is the official publication of the Consumer Action Resource Group (CARG). It was founded in 2014 by Andy Williams Jr. Currently it is a quarterly journal about human rights, history, politics and culture. It seeks to inform and educate its readers about solutions that continue to plague the communities of low to moderate income families. The goal is to provide positive, informative and rehabilitative stories of hope and redemption inspiration to those who are currently incarcerated, have been incarcerated and the communities in which they live.
Drawing on his own experience in the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) and the his involvement in street organizations, Andy Williams, Jr. has created an online and an in print magazine dedicated to the millions of people and their families who have been imprisoned in the United States.
The magazine provides a forum for real talk, straight answers and helpful resources to help those who are looking to improve their circumstances and as powerful insight for those who know someone incarcerated, or have been affected by the legal system, street organizations, and gangs. By sharing our stories we can all grow, learn and heal by leading the way to a more productive present and future..
Learn More
Society functionally imposes a life sentence of economic hardship to those who have been incarcerated and to those who have parents who are incarcerated.
Here are Real Statistics
- 1 million U.S. adults are in jail or prison
- 5 million U.S. adults are on probation
- 725,527 U.S. adults are on parole
- 16% of the prison population suffer from mental illness
- Those who have spent time in prison earn 40% less annually than the general population
- 1 in every 28 children has an incarcerated parent (2/3 for non violent offenses)
- More than 1 in 3 black and brown males without a high school diploma are in prison
- The US houses 25% of the worlds prisoners even though the US is only 5% of the global population
- 1 in 15 black men is behind bars
- 1 in 13 black men is unable to vote due to losing right to vote as an ex felon
- 2/3 of former prisoners will be rearrested for serious new crimes
It doesn’t have to be this way. There is hope for those who have been incarcerated. With education, inspiration, and support, people can build a new and meaningful life for themselves while helping inspire those on the same journey.
Help Contribute
Everyone has a purpose and a story. By sharing your story, you may provide the inspiration needed by someone who can relate. Please consider sharing your story for those who may be just beginning their journey as an prevention, intervention, or form of redemption.
Tell Us Your Story
Inmate: B15364
Everyone Deserves a 2nd Chance
My parents separated when I was four. I went to live with my Father who was dating a German lady. The late 70’s still had a hint of racial bias, and I often was affected by it. Although there were many options available to me, I made the decision to join a gang.
I soon found myself deeply involved in the gang lifestyle, which included drugs, violence and life on the streets. This led to my arrest and incarceration.
Using my incarceration as a wake-up call, I continued my education and earned my Paralegal Certification and obtained my Real Estate License and Mortgage Broker’s License. I earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Paralegal Studies, became the 3rd Vice President and Chairman of Housing for the NAACP, and became a catalyst for change.
“There is no easy walk to freedom anywhere, and many of us will have to pass through the valley of the shadow of death again and again before we reach the mountaintop of our desires.”
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