The Anti-Recidivism Coalition (ARC) has selected Sam Lewis as its next Executive Director.
Sam is an ARC member and Director of Inside Programs, a first-of-its kind initiative that he built from scratch. A former life prisoner himself, Sam oversees our Hope & Redemption Team (HART), nine former lifers who go back into California state prisons to provide hope, to demonstrate that redemption is achievable, and to prepare participants for successful reentry into our communities. His work on the HART team exemplifies what’s best about ARC: our desire to reach and walk with those who have been most marginalized by society.
Sam previously worked with Friends Outside Los Angeles County (FOLA) as Job Specialist, Case Manager, Employment Programs Supervisor, and Project Director, roles that reinforced his commitment to creating opportunities for formerly incarcerated men and women as they transition back into society. In 2018, Sam was the recipient of a Bank of America Neighborhood Builders Award and an Uncommon Law Uncommon Heroes award.
We are confident that Sam brings both the professional and life experience needed in this important leadership role and within the ARC community. We believe that Sam’s promotion to Executive Director is a victory for all ARC members and allies committed to developing leadership among those most impacted by the system.
As we celebrate Sam’s promotion, we want to thank Shaka Senghor for his great contributions to the ARC community during his tenure as Executive Director. Shaka launched ARC Creatives, a program that will continue to grow as an engine for cultural change in the criminal justice reform movement and beyond. We are grateful for Shaka’s vision and leadership at ARC.
Thank you to our community for your patience, support, and partnership in this transition—and we look forward to providing many opportunities for you to see Sam’s transformative work in action.
Sincerely yours,
Charity Chandler-Cole, Board Chair
Scott Budnick, Founder
