Beyond Prison Walls JCI Program: Restoring Lives, Rebuilding Communities

Beyond Prison Walls is one of the flagship programs of JCI Philippines, dedicated to the holistic rehabilitation and reintegration of persons deprived of liberty (PDLs). Rooted in restorative justice, it upholds human rights and explores the transformative power of education, sports, culture, and livelihood, empowering PDLs to rebuild their lives with dignity and purpose. This initiative aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goal 16, promoting peaceful, inclusive communities, ensuring access to justice, and strengthening institutions at every level.

A Vision of Restorative Justice

Restorative justice centers on repairing harm and rebuilding trust by bringing together affected individuals, including offenders, victims, and communities, creating pathways for accountability, healing, and personal growth. Within prisons, this philosophy helps PDLs understand the impact of their actions and prepares them for meaningful reintegration into society.

Since its inception in 2002, guided by JCI national leaders, Beyond Prison Walls has implemented programs across the Philippines from Navotas to Cagayan de Oro, supporting humane justice, education, recreation, vocational training, and livelihood development. 

What We Do in Beyond Prison Walls JCI Program

Human Rights Advocacy

• Our team ensures PDLs know their rights from access to legal support to the basics of humane treatment. 

Sports, Cultural & Educational Engagement

• Through sports fests (like JCI Tanauan’s coastal cleanup with parolees), art workshops, and literacy advancement, we foster healthy minds, talents, and connections.

Livelihood & Skills Training

• We collaborate with local sectors to teach practical skills and offer business opportunities, just like JCI Lipa’s HOPE project that helps PDLs build crafts while working with BJMP 

Public Awareness Campaigns

• Beyond prison walls, we challenge public perceptions of incarceration and encourage empathy toward reintegration efforts.

Real-Life Impact About Beyond Prison Walls JCI Program (Stories That Inspire)

Panabo City Jail (2024)

• Through Beyond Prison Walls, JCI Davao extended support to 500–600 inmates with medical, legal, feeding, and recreational projects during a JCI Week collaboration.

JCI Tanauan Pasaka (2022)

• “Renew & Restore” brought 120 parolees together for a coastal cleanup and seminar in Tanauan, promoting environmental responsibility and restorative justice.

JCI QC Female Dorm (2023)

• Beauty & art workshops supported 100 women PDLs with hygiene kits, meals, and livelihood training, offering hope and a sense of self-worth.

How Beyond Prison Walls JCI Program Works

• Needs Assessment: Chapters survey correctional facilities to assess legal, educational, physical, vocational, and psychosocial.
• Strategic Partnerships: We collaborate with BJMP, LGUs, NGOs, professionals, and volunteers.
• Comprehensive Activities: Healing-focused workshops, legal clinics, vocational training, recreation, and spiritual support are delivered by trained volunteers.
• Empowerment & Reintegration: Inmates develop new skills, enhancing employability and self-esteem, essential for success after release.
• Public Engagement: We share stories, shift perspectives, and invite communities to support PDL reintegration.

Why Beyond Prison Walls JCI Program Matters

• Humanizing the System: Philippine prisons are severely overcrowded, some at over 400% capacity, and lack rehabilitation, making recidivism likely
• Reducing Recidivism: Restorative justice programs significantly lower reoffending compared to purely punitive approaches.. 
• Building Safer Societies: Offering skills and support equips PDLs to re-enter society positively, benefiting families and communities. 
• Support for Justice and Reform: This aligns with the SDG 16 goals of justice, access, inclusive institutions, and peaceful communities.

How You Can Help Beyond Prison Walls JCI Program

Volunteers – Facilitate workshops, legal clinics, sports events, arts activities, or vocational training.

Professional Partners – Legal experts, counselors, health workers, and trades mentors are essential.

Organizations – Co-sponsor, provide vocational workshops, or host exhibitions showcasing PDL craftsmanship.

Supporters – Donations empower programs, skill training, legal aid, and rehabilitation support.

Together, we can shine a light of hope where despair often prevails.

Frequently Asked Questions About Beyond Prison Walls

• Who qualifies as PDLs?

• PDLs include individuals currently detained in jails or under probation, with a focus on human dignity and rehabilitation.

• Do PDLs receive legal aid?

• Yes, our workshops inform them of rights, legal processes, and how to access assistance within detention facilities.

• Can non-members volunteer?

• Absolutely! We welcome professionals and advocates interested in supporting justice and rehabilitation efforts.

• Are the programs free?

• Yes. All services are provided at no cost to PDLs, funded by donations and partnerships.

Join the Movement for Restorative Justice

Beyond Prison Walls Program is more than a prison outreach, it’s a beacon of second chances. By focusing on dignity, empowerment, and practical rehabilitation, we help PDLs transition into productive, rebuilding citizens.

You can be part of this change through advocacy, volunteering, sponsorship, or simply sharing this story.

Get in Touch with JCI Alabang

Interested in partnering, joining a project, or learning more about our programs? We’d love to hear from you. Whether you’re a potential volunteer, donor, or community partner, our team is ready to connect. Contact us and We’re here to support change makers like you.