Chicago Torture Justice Center

the Illinois Prison Project’s Ambassador Fellowship—our very first outing as a class.

We had the opportunity to visit the Chicago Torture Justice Center, and I’m telling you, it was nothing short of impactful. This wasn’t just a trip—it was a deep, intentional space where we leaned into conversations around mental health, healing, and what real self-care actually looks like for those of us coming home and navigating a new reality.

One of the truths we unpacked today is something many people on the outside don’t fully see or understand: when we come home, we’re not the same. Growth changes you. Experiences shape you. And even the people who love you—family included—have to learn who you are all over again. That process of “blending back in” isn’t overnight. It takes time, patience, and a whole lot of grace.

At the same time, there’s this expectation placed on us—to pour into others, to be the helper, the example—just because people see us doing well. But what we’re learning is that in order to truly serve, we have to first protect our peace. That means being intentional about our physical health, our mental well-being, our mindfulness, and yes—setting real boundaries in our relationships.

Today we broke self-care down in a real way. Not surface-level, but the kind that keeps you grounded when life starts pulling at you from every direction. We even tapped into creativity—drawing portraits, expressing ourselves, and opening up in ways that build trust and community within the room. See the photos below.

This fellowship is already showing me that the Illinois Prison Project is not about a one-sided narrative. It’s about transformation, growth, and creating space for voices that have too often been overlooked.

I’m grateful to be part of this. Much respect to the IPP for the work they’re doing and the way they’re pouring into us.

As I said, check out the images below—our self-care breakdowns and some of the portraits we created today. This is what healing, learning, and building together looks like in real time.