Isabella Basso
Pronouns: she/her
Research Mentor(s): LaNeice Jones
Research Mentor School/College/Department: Southwest Detroit Community Justice Center / NonUM
Program: UROP
Session: Session 7 (4:40pm – 5:30pm)
Authors: Isabella Basso, LaNeice Jones
Abstract
The criminal legal system has historically marginalized and criminalized BIPOC people and low-income communities. To counteract the harmful effects of our modern-day carceral state, the Southwest Detroit Justice Center (SWDCJC) is a neighborhood-based organization serving the 48209, 48210, 48216, and 48217 zip codes. The center prioritizes the dignity of the individual and collaborates with the community to maintain safety and vibrancy. To enhance its organizational capacity, SWDCJC fosters partnerships and maintains sustainable relationships within a restorative framework for service delivery. We prioritize researching and advancing innovative programs in re-entry services, disability justice, anti-trafficking, and youth violence prevention. Our programs include the Prostitution Offenders Program (POP), Community Court, Growing Youth (violence prevention), and Journey to HOPE (anti-trafficking program). SWDCJC is led by CEO LaNeice Jones and supported by staff members Carmensita Buentello (Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion (LEAD) case manager) and James Phillips (community service coordinator). Our services include legal aid, educational/vocational assistance, and additional support such as empathetic conversations, crisis intervention, food, transportation, and translation services. To provide wrap-around services, SWDCJC collaborates with the community, Detroit’s 4th Precinct, courts, and other organizations (e.g., Legal Aid and Defender Association, Community Health, and Social Services) to provide individualized complex care and dismantle systemic barriers. We maintain transparent communication and creativity in composing proposals for Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) grant applications and exploring integrated approaches to violence reduction in partnership with Southwest Solutions to foster creative outlets for youth and advance the broader mission of reducing recidivism rates. Ultimately, SWDCJC fosters a healing justice framework that meets the community where they are and delivers innovative services to enhance mental health care, harm reduction, and vocational aspirations.
