We are thrilled to share WIND’s 2024–25 Annual Report, highlighting a year of growth, impact, and community. From reaching over 400 women—our largest cohort ever—to expanding the Bridge Program and deepening leadership opportunities for justice-impacted women, this report celebrates the dedication of our team, volunteers, and supporters. Read the full
In our WIND workshops at Cook County Jail and a local transition home, system-impacted women have shared their thoughts, feelings, recollections and dreams. Their writingprovides a window to each woman’s individuality and shows how, by getting to know eachother, we can all broaden our understanding of each other and cross
Read our interview with Penny Hirsch, a founding board member of WIND, who spoke with us about the organization’s mission, her passion for helping justice-involved women, and future WIND plans!
By Brooke Williams — This summer, I had the privilege of collaborating with WIND as part of Northwestern’s Engage Chicago program. Engage Chicago stands as a unique summer avenue, offering an opportunity to deeply explore and understand the city through the lens of civic engagement. During my time with WIND,
By Penny Hirsch, PhD — My short answer: Because helping formerly incarcerated women gain the skills they need to live independently is one small way to give back to people who have been ignored and mistreated by the U.S. criminal justice system and our society in general. In addition, WIND
By Grace Lemon — “If you put good in, good is going to come back to you.” On July 27th, two of WIND’s volunteers sat down for a phone interview with 72-year-old Linda G. We spoke to her about her experience with the criminal justice system and the support systems
