The Importance of Writing Letters of Support for Incarcerated Individuals
When someone is incarcerated, the world outside doesn’t stop. Life moves forward, and those inside often are left behind isolated from the rest of society. However, there is a powerful tool that family, friends, and advocates can use to bridge this gap—a letter of support. Such letters are not just pieces of paper; they are lifelines, beacons of hope that can play a crucial role in shaping an incarcerated individual’s future, particularly when it comes to parole hearings.
Why Write a Letter of Support?
1. Humanizing the Individual:
Incarceration reduces men, women, and even juveniles to numbers and case files in the eyes of the justice system. A letter of support adds a human element back to their narrative, reminding the parole board that the individual is more than their worst decision. These letters can share insights into the person’s character, growth, and the positive changes they have made, which might not be evident in their official records.
2. Demonstrating Community Ties and Support:
A strong support system is crucial for anyone hoping and preparing for reintegration into society. Letters of support show the parole board that there are people who care about and will assist the incarcerated individual upon their release. This support significantly reduces the risk of recidivism, making the individual a better candidate for parole.
3. Offering a Promise of a Better Future:
Letters can outline tangible plans that include employment, housing, or educational opportunities awaiting the individual upon release. Knowing that these elements are firmly in place prior to release should be a compelling factor for a board considering someone for parole.
Crafting an Effective Letter of Support
To truly make an impact, a letter of support should be heartfelt, personal, and clear. Here’s a structured example with explanations:
[Your Full Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
Example Parole Board
Department of Rehabilitation and Correction
777 Tranquility Lane
Somewhere, USA 99999
Dear Members of the Parole Board,
Introduction:
Start by introducing yourself, including how you know the individual, and the nature of your relationship:
I am writing on behalf of [Name], whom I have known for [number] years. I met [Name] through [context of your relationship], and over the years, our relationship has grown based on mutual respect and shared values.
Body Paragraph 1: Character and Growth
Discuss the individual’s character, any personal growth you have witnessed, and their behavioral development during incarceration, including daily positive interactions with staff and fellow incarcerated individuals:
During the time I have known [Name], I have witnessed significant personal growth. Despite the challenges of being incarcerated, [Name] has taken every opportunity to engage in educational programs, showing a genuine commitment to self-improvement and learning new skills.
Body Paragraph 2: Contributions and Remorse
Highlight any contributions they have made, like participation in community service or other positive activities, and mention their remorse and understanding of their actions:
Body Paragraph 3: Support System and Future Plans
Outline the support system that awaits them and any plans that can facilitate their successful reintegration:
Upon [Name]’s release, a strong support network consisting of family, friends, and [any specific organizations or individuals] is ready to assist. We have also arranged for [employment, educational opportunities, or housing] to ensure a smooth transition back into society.
Conclusion:
Conclude by reiterating your belief in the individual’s readiness for parole and your commitment to supporting them:
I am confident in [Name]’s readiness to rejoin society and lead a productive, fulfilling life. I hope you will consider all these factors in your decision on [Name]’s parole. Please feel free to contact me if you require further information or wish to discuss this further.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
