“I like helping to change the culture in prison. That’s my passion.” –Ed Calderon, Phoenix Association member

Our members are dynamic formerly incarcerated men and women who have successfully re-entered mainstream society and are civic minded individuals. They have been chosen for their passion and commitment to helping to improve correctional systems.

Our members come from diverse demographic backgrounds similar to those of the currently incarcerated population of Connecticut. Most grew up in poor urban neighborhoods, and we have a higher percentage of African American, Puerto Rican, Latino members than Caucasian members. Our members tend to have served longer sentences and are on average 35-50 years old.