Inside the JustOfDuPage Organization

When I entered the visitation center at DuPage County Jail, stillness and quiet greeted me. I expected a more lively space, but the only sound was the typing on a keyboard and an occasional opening and shutting of two doors in the back of the room; I soon learned that those doors led to the area where jail residents meet with visitors. I sat in one of the chairs; the only thing on the table beside me was a single pamphlet. It read, How to Support a Loved One Incarcerated. I wondered how many loved ones read those pamphlets. How many people sit in the stillness waiting to see their family or friends behind the doors?

My reason for entering this waiting room was to visit the organization JustofDuPage. This nonprofit organization was formed thirty-five years ago to help individuals in Wheaton, Illinois, earn their GED. Eventually, JustofDuPage extended its branches to the larger of DuPage County and made a home within the walls of the Dupage County Jail. JustofDuPage provides educational services, spiritual enrichment, addiction recovery, reentry resources, and life skills to those involved in the justice system.

After a few minutes of waiting, a JustofDuPage staff member greeted me*. Five years ago, the staff member began employment at this agency; they started as a board member and now work as part of the staff. They organize many programs, including the Storybook Program, where those in jail record themselves reading a story to send to their loved ones. The staff member knows what it is like to be affected by incarceration, for their father was in and out of jail throughout their childhood. They were kind enough to explain to me what it was like to have a loved one behind bars; it was especially tough for them not to be able to hear their father's voice. This Storybook Program grew out of this personal experience.

In addition to Storybook, they lead many events and programs for the detainees. Those programs are essential to the mission of JustofDuPage, as they provide opportunities for growth for many individuals. The staff member said that the individuals housed at DuPage County Jail experienced a lack of tools and resources in their childhood. When they enter those doors, many feel lost. The staff member said JustofDuPage provides those tools for them; once they get out, they can be successful and make a mark on the world. The staff member smiled when referring to the detainees as like their children.

Although freedom intrigues those detained, the realities of freedom can also be daunting. A criminal record produces obstacles; obtaining a home or a job can be challenging. JustofDuPage sees that problem firsthand. In response, they have created a platform for the detained to stand on. Many have stood on that platform in a cap and gown. One hundred fifty-two inmates graduated in 2023 and completed the natural custodial program. These graduates have the training to acquire a job upon release.

When the meeting with the staff member ended, they said, "I truly love what I do here." That was evident, for genuineness poured out of this staff member throughout our entire conversation. I could not help but smile when I left and walked out of the gloominess of the visitation room into the brightness of day.

*For privacy concerns, the staff member I met with requested that their name be kept from the article.