Concord Prison Outreach

Spring Gathering
2024-04-25 15:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | 169 Heath Bridge Rd, 169 Heath Bridge Rd, Concord
CONCORD PRISON OUTREACH PRESENTS
SPRING GATHERING
NEW DATE:
Thursday April, 25 2024
169 Heath Bridge Rd
Concord, MA 01742
Join us for a conversation on enhancing our partnership as CPO expands and delivers programming to the incarcerated community.
RSVP to Liz Rust or Sam Williams:
LIZ@THERUSTS.NET
SAM@CONCORDPRISONOUTREACH.ORG
See you there!

Faith in Action Gathering: Interfaith Gathering
2024-05-19 15:00 - 17:00 | Trinitarian Congregational Church, 54 Walden St, Concord, 01742, United States
Faith in Action Gathering: Interfaith Gathering
Concord Prison Outreach will be hosting an Interfaith Event on Sunday, May 19th, 2024, from 3:00 to 5:00 pm at TRICon Church, located at 54 Walden St, Concord, MA 01742. This event aims to unite diverse faith communities in reflection, connection, and advocacy for a fairer and more compassionate world.
Date: Sunday, May 19, 2024
Time: 3:00-5:00pm
Location: TRICon Church, 54 Walden St, Concord, MA 01742.
Light refreshments will be available.
On this auspicious occasion, we will also be honoring the legacy of Malcolm X on his birthday. Malcolm X was a pivotal figure in the civil rights movement, advocating for justice and equality for all. His teachings and actions continue to inspire generations, and we believe it is essential to celebrate his contributions as we work towards a better future.
During our event, we will have opportunities for attendees to engage in meaningful dialogue, share their perspectives, and explore how faith can drive positive social change. Together, we can create a more inclusive and empathetic society where everyone’s voice is heard and respected
RSVP: JEANNETTE@CONCORDPRISONOUTREACH.ORG
978-369-1430

Faith in Action Gathering
2024-05-19 15:00 - 17:00 | Trinitarian Congregational Church, 54 Walden St, Concord, 01742, United States
CONCORD PRISON OUTREACH PRESENTS
FAITH IN ACTION GATHERING
Join us for an Interfaith Gathering, uniting diverse faith communities to reflect, connect, and advocate for a fairer, more compassionate world through faith and social action, while honoring the legacy of Malcolm X on his birthday.
Sunday May 19, 2024
3:00PM-5:00PM
TriCon Church
54 Walden St., Concord, MA 01742
RSVP: JEANNETTE@CONCORDPRISONOUTREACH.ORG
978-369-1430

Concord Prison Outreach 4-Day Restorative Justice Training
2024-06-01 10:00 - 14:30 | West Concord Union Church, 1317 Main Street, Concord, MA, 01742
Concord Prison Outreach 4-Day Restorative Justice Training
Concord Prison Outreach will be conducting a 4-Day Restorative Justice Facilitator Training once again. This training will be presented over 2 weekends, spanning 4 days.
This training is tailored for volunteers interested in facilitating an 8-week Restorative Justice Reading Group at one of the following facilities: MCI-Framingham, MCI-Norfolk, Pondville Correctional Center, MCI-Shirley, and/or Middlesex House of Correction. If you cannot commit to all 4 days of this training, we ask that you wait to participate in the next training that is offered in the future.
Register here!
Training Overview:
What: 4-Day Restorative Justice Training
Instructor: Sam Williams, lead facilitator
Training Schedule:
Session 1: Saturday, June 1st – 10:00am – 2:30pm
Session 2: Sunday, June 2nd – 1:00 – 5:00 pm
Session 3: Saturday, June 8th- 10:00am – 2:30 pm
Session 4: Sunday, June 9th – 1:00 – 5:00 pm
Location: West Concord Union Church, 1317 Main St, Concord, MA 01742
During this comprehensive training, you will gain insights into restorative justice theories, practices, principles, trauma-informed practices, and group facilitation skills. The objective is to equip you with the necessary skills to effectively facilitate our Restorative Justice Reading Group programs.
To express your interest in participating, please register here. Spots are limited!

Wisdom in the Circle: Conversation about Race and Culture in the 21st Century
2024-06-05 18:00 - 20:00 | First Parish in Concord, 20 Lexington Rd, Concord, MA, 01742, United States
Wisdom in the Circle – Conversation about Race and Culture in the 21st Century
When:

Wednesday, June 5 – 6:00-8:00 pm

Where:
First Parish in Concord, 20 Lexington Rd, Concord, MA 01742
Free and open to the public. No registration is required!
The objective of the program is to share personal stories about race in our lives and how we can work toward building the beloved community.
This conversation will be structured as a listening circle format, creating an intentional space for personal and community reflection. It is not a presentation or briefing but a chance to get to know each other through sharing our experiences and deepening relationships.
In the 21st century, we are currently experiencing a relational deficit, encompassing global differences, environmental concerns, and racial and cultural differences. At the heart of all these disparities, the quality of human relationships has deteriorated, and we have lost the communal capacity for mutual respect and caring. We hope to use this platform to strengthen and heal the web of relationships.
Sponsored by: Concord Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI), Concord Prison Outreach (CPO), and First Parish of Concord Racial Justice Action Group (RJAG)

Wisdom in the Circle: Conversation about Race and Culture in the 21st Century
2024-06-26 18:00 - 20:00 | First Parish in Concord, 20 Lexington Rd, Concord, MA, 01742, United States
Wisdom in the Circle – Conversation about Race and Culture in the 21st Century
When:

Wednesday, June 5 – 6:00-8:00 pm
Wednesday, June 26 – 6:00-8:00 pm

Where:
First Parish in Concord, 20 Lexington Rd, Concord, MA 01742
Free and open to the public. No registration is required!
The objective of the program is to share personal stories about race in our lives and how we can work toward building the beloved community.
This conversation will be structured as a listening circle format, creating an intentional space for personal and community reflection. It is not a presentation or briefing but a chance to get to know each other through sharing our experiences and deepening relationships.
In the 21st century, we are currently experiencing a relational deficit, encompassing global differences, environmental concerns, and racial and cultural differences. At the heart of all these disparities, the quality of human relationships has deteriorated, and we have lost the communal capacity for mutual respect and caring. We hope to use this platform to strengthen and heal the web of relationships.
Sponsored by: Concord Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI), Concord Prison Outreach (CPO), and First Parish of Concord Racial Justice Action Group (RJAG)

Naming Dedication: Concord Reformatory Cemetery
2024-10-06 14:00 - 16:00 | Gerow Pavilion, 369 Commonwealth Ave, concord, 01742, United States
Naming Dedication: Concord Reformatory Cemetery
Join us in honoring the men buried at the Concord Reformatory Cemetery with a naming dedication, where each individual will be remembered. Sunday, October 6th, 2024
Date: Sunday, October 6, 2024
Time: 2:00-4:00pm
Location: Gerow Pavilion, 369 Commonwealth Ave, Concord, MA 01742
For more information or to volunteer as a speaker, please contact Liz at liz@therusts.net

Support this projectAbout the Concord Reformatory Cemetery:
The Concord Reformatory Cemetery is the final resting place of 218 men, each buried in a grave marked only by a plot number.
The cemetery, marked by a large cement cross mounted on a cement pedestal and visible from Route 2, stands as a silent reminder of these forgotten men. By naming them, we recognize them as individuals, not numbers. In doing so, we transform their markers into monuments and honor those who died while in custody.
Through dedicated research and archiving, we are uncovering and preserving the stories of these individuals. These stories will be told through short biographies that provide details about their lives and incarceration. With the invaluable help of Lisa Kennedy and her students at the Massachusetts College of Art, we’ve also created memorial illustrations for each individual interred at the cemeterygenerations to come. This work has also been made possible with support from the Friends of the Concord Free Public Library and the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail Advisory Committee.
Click Here to Explore our Interactive Map of the Cemetery>
These memorials will be featured on an interpretive panel at the entrance of the cemetery and accessible via a QR code, linking to biographies and artwork. Additionally, the Special Collections at the Concord Free Public Library will preserve these biographies and illustrations, ensuring their stories are remembered for generations to come. This work has also been made possible with support from the Friends of the Concord Free Public Library and the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail Advisory Committee.
Your support makes this meaningful project possible, and we are deeply grateful for your commitment to remembering these men and their lives.

Concord Prison Outreach's Annual Community Event: Expanding Social Justice in Community
2024-10-17 18:00 - 20:00 | First Parish in Concord, 20 Lexington Rd, Concord, MA, 01742, United States
RSVP HEREConcord Prison Outreach’s Annual Community Event: Expanding Social Justice in Community
We are excited to invite you to our celebration event, “Expanding Social Justice in Community.”
Please fill out the RSVP form here to let us know if you can join us. We look forward to seeing you there!
Event Details:
Date: Thursday, October 17, 2024
Time: 6:00 – 8:00pm
Location: First Parish in Concord, 20 Lexington Road, Concord, MA 01742
This event is a special opportunity for us to come together, celebrate our collective efforts, and explore new ways to promote
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us at outreach@concordprisonoutreach.org or 978-369-1430.

Cemetery Showcase: Concord Reformatory Cemetery
2024-11-12 18:00 - 19:45 | Goodwin Forum, 129 Main Street, Concord, MA, 01742, United States
Cemetery Showcase: Concord Reformatory Cemetery
Join us for a presentation of the Concord Reformatory Cemetery Project: Naming the Unnamed, featuring art panels, spoken biographies, digital presentations, and panelist storytelling to honor the 218 men buried there.
Downloadable flyer here!
Date: Tuesday, November 12, 2024
Time: 6:00-7:45 pm
Location: Concord Free Public Library, Goodwin Forum in Main Library, 129 Main Street, Concord, MA 01742
RSVP HEREThis program is funded in part by Mass Humanities and Freedom’s Way National Heritage Area
Support this projectAbout the Concord Reformatory Cemetery:
The Concord Reformatory Cemetery is the final resting place of 218 men, each buried in a grave marked only by a plot number.
The cemetery, marked by a large cement cross mounted on a cement pedestal and visible from Route 2, stands as a silent reminder of these forgotten men. By naming them, we recognize them as individuals, not numbers. In doing so, we transform their markers into monuments and honor those who died while in custody.
Through dedicated research and archiving, we are uncovering and preserving the stories of these individuals. These stories will be told through short biographies that provide details about their lives and incarceration. With the invaluable help of Lisa Kennedy and her students at the Massachusetts College of Art, we’ve also created memorial illustrations for each individual interred at the cemeterygenerations to come. This work has also been made possible with support from the Friends of the Concord Free Public Library and the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail Advisory Committee.
Click Here to Explore our Interactive Map of the Cemetery>
These memorials will be featured on an interpretive panel at the entrance of the cemetery and accessible via a QR code, linking to biographies and artwork. Additionally, the Special Collections at the Concord Free Public Library will preserve these biographies and illustrations, ensuring their stories are remembered for generations to come.
Your support makes this meaningful project possible, and we are deeply grateful for your commitment to remembering these men and their lives.

Concord Prison Outreach 4-Day Restorative Justice Training
2025-01-11 10:00 - 14:30 | West Concord Union Church, 1317 Main Street, Concord, MA, 01742
Concord Prison Outreach 4-Day Restorative Justice Training
Concord Prison Outreach will be conducting a 4-Day Restorative Justice Facilitator Training once again. This training will be presented over 2 weekends, spanning 4 days.
This training is tailored for volunteers interested in facilitating an 8-week Restorative Justice Reading Group at one of the following facilities: MCI-Framingham, MCI-Norfolk, Pondville Correctional Center, MCI-Shirley, and/or Middlesex House of Correction. If you cannot commit to all 4 days of this training, we ask that you wait to participate in the next training that is offered in the future.
Register here!
Training Overview:
What: 4-Day Restorative Justice Training
Instructor: Sam Williams, lead facilitator
Training Schedule:

Session 1: Saturday, January 11: 10:00 am – 2:30 pm
Session 2: Sunday, January 12: 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Session 3: Saturday, January 18: 10:00 am – 2:30 pm
Session 4: Sunday, January 19: 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Location: West Concord Union Church, 1317 Main St, Concord, MA 01742
During this comprehensive training, you will gain insights into restorative justice theories, practices, principles, trauma-informed practices, and group facilitation skills. The objective is to equip you with the necessary skills to effectively facilitate our Restorative Justice Reading Group programs.
To express your interest in participating, please register here. Spots are limited!

Concord Prison Outreach 4-Day Restorative Justice Training March 2025
2025-03-08 10:00 - 14:30 | West Concord Union Church, 1317 Main Street, Concord, MA, 01742
Concord Prison Outreach 4-Day Restorative Justice Training
Concord Prison Outreach will be conducting a 4-Day Restorative Justice Facilitator Training once again. This training will be presented over 2 weekends, spanning 4 days.
This training is tailored for volunteers interested in facilitating an 8-week Restorative Justice Reading Group at one of the following facilities: MCI-Framingham, MCI-Norfolk, Pondville Correctional Center, MCI-Shirley, and/or Middlesex House of Correction. If you cannot commit to all 4 days of this training, we ask that you wait to participate in the next training that is offered in the future.

Register HereTraining Overview:
What: 4-Day Restorative Justice Training
Instructor: Sam Williams, lead facilitator
Training Schedule:
Day 1: Saturday, March 8, 10:00 AM–2:30 PM
Day 2: Sunday, March 9, 1:00 PM–5:00 PM
Day 3: Saturday, March 22, 9:00 AM–1:00 PM
Day 4: Sunday, March 23, 1:00 PM–5:00 PM
Location: West Concord Union Church, 1317 Main St, Concord, MA 01742
During this comprehensive training, you will gain insights into restorative justice theories, practices, principles, trauma-informed practices, and group facilitation skills. The objective is to equip you with the necessary skills to effectively facilitate our Restorative Justice Reading Group programs.
To express your interest in participating, please register here or go to rjcpo.eventbrite.com. Spots are limited!

Navigating Uncertain Times: An Interfaith Gathering
2025-03-30 15:00 - 17:00 | Trinity Episcopal Church, 81 Elm Street, Concord, MA, 01742, United States
Navigating Uncertain Times: An Interfaith Gathering
These are incredible times! CPO is having our Third Annual Interfaith Gathering on Sunday March 30 3-5pm at Trinity Church in Concord.
This event aims to unite diverse faith communities in reflection, connection, and finding meaning together in the midst of these uncertain times.
During our event, we will have opportunities to engage in meaningful dialogue, share their perspectives, and explore how faith can be a bridge to positive social change. Together, we can create a more inclusive and empathetic society where everyone’s voice is heard and valued. We know this to be true.
RSVP and information can be found on the attached flyer.
Date: Sunday, March 30, 2025
Time: 3:00-5:00 pm
Location: Trinity Episcopal Church 81 Elm St, Concord, MA 01742
Light refreshments will be available.
RSVP: JEANNETTE@CONCORDPRISONOUTREACH.ORG
978-369-1430

Community Event Featuring Sam Williams: 5 Black Men. 5 Perspectives. One Powerful Discussion.
2025-04-10 18:00 - 19:30 | Cambridge Public Library, Main BRA Cambridge, MA
Event Description:We’re proud to share that our Executive Director, Sam Williams, will be a featured panelist at an upcoming community event focused on Black male leadership in Restorative Justice.
5 Black Men. 5 Perspectives. One Powerful Discussion. brings together five Black male Circle Keepers who are practicing and expanding Restorative Justice beyond traditional spaces. Together, they’ll discuss what it means to do this work in systems and institutions that weren’t designed for them—and how they continue to lead, inspire, and transform.
Panelists include:

Sam Williams – Executive Director, Concord Prison Outreach

Damon Banks – Social Worker, Chief Probation Officer

Omo Moses – CEO, Author

Harvard Blue – Educator, Consultant

Vinson Givans – Mitigation Manager, Football Coach

Date: Wednesday, April 10Time: 6:00 – 7:30 PMLocation: Cambridge Public Library – Main Branch
Free entry, all are welcome!
For More Info: chanchanb123@icloud.com

Concord Patriots' Day Parade
2025-04-19 08:30 - 11:00 | Concord, MA, Main Street, Concord, 01742, United States
Concord250 Patriot’s Day
Join us for the Concord250 Patriot’s Day Parade, where members of the Concord Prison Outreach staff, board, and community will be marching! We hope to see you as we celebrate Patriot’s Day and Concord’s 250th anniversary together!
Date: Saturday, April 19, 2025
Time: 8:30am
Location: Concord, MA – Visit Concord250.org for more information about the parade and route or click here.
MORE INFO

Grow Hope Where It's Needed Most 🌱: Volunteer Info Session on Garden Programming in Prisons
2025-04-30 18:30 - 19:30 | Online Zoom Meeting
Grow Hope Where It’s Needed Most 🌱: Volunteer Info Session on Garden Programming in Prisons
Zoom Link
Date & Time:
Wednesday, April 30th, 6:30–7:30 PM
Zoom – [link here]
Concord Prison Outreach invites you to a virtual info session to explore a unique volunteer opportunity: bringing horticulture education to incarcerated individuals at MCI-Shirley, MCI-Framingham, and the BRAVE Unit at North Central Correctional Institution.
Join us on Wednesday, April 30th at 6:30 PM to learn how cultivating plants can transform lives—yours included. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or simply curious, this session is a great way to discover how your skills can make a lasting impact.
Led by longtime instructor and Principal Master Gardener Jean Theurkauf, alongside CPO’s Ellie DiMauro, this informal Zoom session offers a chance to ask questions, hear real experiences, and imagine what’s possible.
No commitment required—just curiosity and compassion.
Zoom Link

Concord Prison Outreach Annual Business Meeting
2025-05-08 19:00 - 20:30 | Online Zoom Meeting
You’re Invited to CPO’s Annual Business Meeting!
Zoom Link
Please join Concord Prison Outreach for our Annual Business Meeting on Wednesday, May 8th. This is an opportunity to hear updates on our work, celebrate our community’s impact over the past year, and look ahead to the future of our programs and partnerships.
Date:
Thursday, May 8th
Time:
7:00-8:30 pm
Link:
This meeting will be hosted virtually on Zoom. Find the link here.
We warmly invite all volunteers, donors, community partners, and supporters to attend. Your presence helps strengthen the shared mission that drives our work forward.
Zoom Link

Bringing Lives Forward: Patriots of the Concord Reformatory Prison Cemetery
2025-05-18 14:00 - 16:00 | Gerow Pavilion, 369 Commonwealth Ave, concord, 01742, United States
Bringing Lives Forward: Patriots of the Concord Reformatory Prison CemeteryEveryone Has a Story:
A Public Recognition Event
Sunday, May 18 | 2:00 – 4:00 PM (Rain or shine)

Join us in honoring the lives of veterans buried at the Concord Reformatory Prison Cemetery—men laid to rest between 1878 and 1996, whose bodies were never claimed by family, but whose stories deserve to be remembered. Many served in the Civil War and other military tours of duty. This event seeks to acknowledge their service, dignity, and humanity.
Location:
Gerow Recreation Area Pavilion
Near MCI-Concord Prison37B Commonwealth Avenue, Concord, MA
Limited parking is available by the event site. Additional parking is available near the prison and the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail.
Date & Time:Sunday, May 18 | 2:00 – 4:00 PM(Rain or shine)
This program is offered by Concord Prison Outreach as part of the Freedom’s Way – Hidden Treasures Festival of Nature, Culture & History, an annual month-long celebration showcasing events and activities hosted by local partners celebrating the unique places, objects, and stories of the Freedom’s Way National Heritage Area. Hidden Treasures programs are free and open to the public. Learn More >
Explore the “Naming the Unnamed Project”Contact:Sam WilliamsExecutive Director, Concord Prison Outreachsam@concordprisonoutreach.org(978) 369-1430
Help us bring their lives forward. All are welcome.

CPO @ 20th Annual Concord Ag Day
2025-09-06 10:00 - 13:00 | Concord, MA, Main Street, Concord, 01742, United States
CPO @ 20th Annual Concord Ag Day
Date: Saturday, September 6, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Location: On Main Street in downtown Concord (between Walden St and the Flagpole rotary)
Rain or Shine!
Come visit members of the Concord Prison Outreach (CPO) community at the 20th Annual Concord Ag Day! This once-a-year farmers’ market, organized by the Concord Agriculture Committee, celebrates local agriculture and showcases the bounty of Concord farms at the height of the growing season.
Stop by our table to learn more about CPO’s programs, upcoming events, and how you can get involved in our mission of building connection and hope for incarcerated people and their families.
Ag Day 2025 will also feature:

Concord Farmers selling fresh, local produce

The return of the Scimone Farm Speedway and Veggie Racers (sponsored by Vanderhoof Hardware)

Live music by Leonard Solomon (11 AM – 1 PM)

The Vegetable Hall of Fame – show off your most impressive or unusual homegrown veggies!

Community nonprofits sharing environmental and agricultural resources

Come celebrate local farms, community spirit, and connection, we look forward to seeing you there!

Concord Prison Outreach 4-Day Restorative Justice Training September 2025
2025-09-20 10:00 - 14:30 | West Concord Union Church, 1317 Main Street, Concord, MA, 01742
Concord Prison Outreach 4-Day Restorative Justice Training
This 4-day Restorative Justice training is designed for individuals who are interested in and committed to facilitating the Restorative Justice Book Group program at one of the following facilities: MCI-Framingham, MCI-Norfolk, MCI-Shirley, Middlesex House of Correction, North Central Correctional Institution, Pondville Correctional Center, and Worcester County Jail.
Participants in the training will form a “circle” of engagement, making full attendance essential for a complete and cohesive learning experience. We kindly ask that only those able to attend all four sessions register, as full participation is crucial to both the material and group dynamics. If you are unable to commit to all four days, please consider joining us for a future training session.

Register HereTraining Overview:
What: 4-Day Restorative Justice Training
Instructor: Sam Williams, lead facilitator
Training Schedule:
Day 1: Saturday, September 20, 10:00 AM–2:30 PM
Day 2: Sunday, September 21, 1:00 PM–5:00 PM
Day 3: Saturday, September 27, 10:00 AM–2:30 PM
Day 4: Sunday, September 28, 1:00 PM–5:00 PM
Location: West Concord Union Church, 1317 Main St, Concord, MA 01742
During this comprehensive training, you will gain insights into restorative justice theories, practices, principles, trauma-informed practices, and group facilitation skills. The objective is to equip you with the necessary skills to effectively facilitate our Restorative Justice Reading Group programs.
To express your interest in participating, please register here or go to rjcpo.eventbrite.com. Spots are limited!

Petals for the Unnamed: Daffodil Planting at Concord Reformatory Cemetery
2025-09-27 12:00 - 16:00 | Concord Reformatory Cemetery, 37B Commonwealth Ave, Concord, MA, 01742, United States
Petals for the Unnamed
Join us for a day of remembrance and renewal as we plant daffodils at the Concord Reformatory Cemetery to honor those laid to rest there. Together, we will bring color and beauty to this historic ground, ensuring that the lives of those buried are not forgotten.
📅 Saturday, September 27, 2025🕛 12:00 PM📍 Concord Reformatory Cemetery, 37B Commonwealth Ave, Concord, MA 01742
You can also take part by sponsoring a daffodil for $10 at donorbox.org/reformatorycemetery.
Sponsor a bouquet of daffodils All are welcome to take part in this act of community care and commemoration.

October 4 – Holiday Gift Bag Assembly Day at Congregational Church of Littleton
2025-10-04 09:30 - 15:00 | MA
For decades, Concord Prison Outreach has sponsored the Holiday Gift Bag Project, providing a bag of simple, useful gifts to each incarcerated man in Concord’s state prisons. Each bag contains toiletries, writing materials, and a greeting card—a reminder that people “outside the walls” care about them during the difficult holiday season.
This year, we’re expanding to serve five correctional facilities, including an additional 1,000 gift bags for the men at Souza Baranowski. Volunteers are needed on Saturday, October 4 at the Congregational Church of Littleton (330 King St, Littleton, MA 01460) to help assemble bags.
Volunteer Shifts:
• 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM
• 12:30 PM – 3:00 PM
[Sign up for a shift here]
Leaving No One Behind:
Along with volunteering, you can extend the impact of this project by sponsoring the cost of holiday gift bags. Together, we can make sure no one is left behind this holiday season. Contribute at donorbox.org/hgb.
Sponsor a Gift Bag

October 18 – Holiday Gift Bag Assembly Day at First Parish Church of Groton
2025-10-18 09:30 - 15:00 | First Parish Church of Groton, 1 Powderhouse Rd, Groton, MA, 01450, United States
For decades, Concord Prison Outreach has sponsored the Holiday Gift Bag Project, providing a bag of simple, useful gifts to each incarcerated man in Concord’s state prisons. Each bag contains toiletries, writing materials, and a greeting card—a reminder that people “outside the walls” care about them during the difficult holiday season.
This year, we’re expanding to serve five correctional facilities, including an additional 1,000 gift bags for the men at Souza Baranowski. Volunteers are needed on Saturday, October 18 at First Parish Church of Groton (1 Powderhouse Rd, Groton, MA 01450) to help assemble bags.
Leaving No One Behind:
Along with volunteering, you can extend the impact of this project by sponsoring the cost of holiday gift bags. Together, we can make sure no one is left behind this holiday season. Contribute at donorbox.org/hgb.
Sponsor a Gift Bag

Annual Community Appreciation Event: Leaving No One Behind
2025-10-22 18:00 - 20:00 | Concord Museum, 53 Cambridge Turnpike, Concord, 01742, United States
Save the Date / Annual Community Event:
Leaving No One Behind
RSVP FOR EVENT HEREJoin the CPO community for an evening of reflection, connection, and gratitude. Enjoy an inspiring keynote from Michael J. Tougias, author of The Finest Hours, who will speak on resilience and the commitment to ensuring no one is left behind. The evening will also feature an art exhibit, open museum halls, and time to gather over wine, beer, and refreshments.
📅 Wednesday, October 22, 2025🕕 6:00 – 8:00 PM📍 Concord Museum, 53 Cambridge Turnpike, Concord, MA 01742
Suggested donation: $50
donateRSVP to Jeannette at outreach@concordprisonoutreach.org
All are welcome!

October 25 – Holiday Gift Bag Assembly Day at First Parish of Sudbury
2025-10-25 09:30 - 15:00 | First Parish of Sudbury, 327 Concord Rd, Sudbury, 01776, United States
For decades, Concord Prison Outreach has sponsored the Holiday Gift Bag Project, providing a bag of simple, useful gifts to each incarcerated man in Concord’s state prisons. Each bag contains toiletries, writing materials, and a greeting card—a reminder that people “outside the walls” care about them during the difficult holiday season.
This year, we’re expanding to serve five correctional facilities, including an additional 1,000 gift bags for the men at Souza Baranowski. Volunteers are needed on Saturday, October 25 at First Parish of Sudbury (327 Concord Rd, Sudbury, MA 01776) to help assemble bags.
Leaving No One Behind:
Along with volunteering, you can extend the impact of this project by sponsoring the cost of holiday gift bags. Together, we can make sure no one is left behind this holiday season. Contribute at donorbox.org/hgb.
Sponsor a Gift Bag

Community Event Featuring Sam Williams: 5th Annual Race and Community Dialogue Series
2025-10-28 15:30 - 17:00 | MA
Event Description:We’re proud to share that our Executive Director, Sam Williams, will serve as a moderator at the 5th Annual Race and Community Dialogue Series, hosted by the Center on Crime, Race, and Justice and its Community Advisory Board.
Public Safety Meets Public Health: Examining Public Safety, Substance Use, and Mental Health in the Mass & Cass Community will bring together practitioners, service providers, policymakers, and researchers for a solutions-focused conversation addressing the complex challenges facing the Mass & Cass and Downtown Boston communities.
This important dialogue explores how public safety, substance use, and mental health intersect, and what collaborative, community-centered strategies can help create lasting change.
Speakers include:

Deputy John Brown – Zone Commander, Boston Police Department, Bureau of Field Services

Dr. Abigail Judge – Clinical & Forensic Psychologist; Co-Founder & Director, Boston HEAT; Instructor in Psychology, Harvard Medical School

Sandra Andrade – Senior Peer Advocate, Dee Kennedy Family Justice Center; Co-Director, Boston HEAT

Dr. Bisola Ojikutu – Commissioner of Public Health and Executive Director, Boston Public Health Commission

Jada Y. Vaughan – PhD Student, Criminology and Justice Policy & Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies, Northeastern University

Moderators:

Charlene D. Luma, LICSW – Chief of Staff, Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office; CRJ Community Advisory Board Member

Sam Williams – Executive Director, Concord Prison Outreach; Co-Director, CRJ Community Advisory Board, Northeastern University

📅 Date: Tuesday, October 28, 2025🕞 Time: 3:30 – 5:00 PM (ET)💻 Location: Virtual Event, register here
Free and open to the public! Join this meaningful conversation on the intersection of justice, health, and community well-being.

November 1 – Holiday Gift Bag Assembly Day at First Parish Church of Stow & Acton
2025-11-01 09:30 - 15:00 | First Parish Church of Stow & Acton, 353 Great Rd, Stow, MA, 01775, United States
For decades, Concord Prison Outreach has sponsored the Holiday Gift Bag Project, providing a bag of simple, useful gifts to each incarcerated man in Concord’s state prisons. Each bag contains toiletries, writing materials, and a greeting card—a reminder that people “outside the walls” care about them during the difficult holiday season.
This year, we’re expanding to serve five correctional facilities, including an additional 1,000 gift bags for the men at Souza Baranowski. Volunteers are needed on Saturday, November 1 at First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (353 Great Rd, Stow, MA 01775) to help assemble bags.
Leaving No One Behind:
Along with volunteering, you can extend the impact of this project by sponsoring the cost of holiday gift bags. Together, we can make sure no one is left behind this holiday season. Contribute at donorbox.org/hgb.
Sponsor a Gift Bag

November 15 – Holiday Gift Bag Assembly Day at Harvard Unitarian Universalist Church
2025-11-15 09:30 - 15:00 | Harvard Unitarian Universalist Church, The Common, 9 Ayer Rd, Harvard, 01451, United States
For decades, Concord Prison Outreach has sponsored the Holiday Gift Bag Project, providing a bag of simple, useful gifts to each incarcerated man in Concord’s state prisons. Each bag contains toiletries, writing materials, and a greeting card—a reminder that people “outside the walls” care about them during the difficult holiday season.
This year, we’re expanding to serve five correctional facilities, including an additional 1,000 gift bags for the men at Souza Baranowski. Volunteers are needed on Saturday, November 15 at Harvard Unitarian Universalist Church (The Common, 9 Ayer Rd, Harvard, MA 01451) to help assemble bags.
Leaving No One Behind:
Along with volunteering, you can extend the impact of this project by sponsoring the cost of holiday gift bags. Together, we can make sure no one is left behind this holiday season. Contribute at donorbox.org/hgb.
Sponsor a Gift Bag

November 22 – Holiday Gift Bag Assembly Day at Northeastern University
2025-11-22 13:00 - 16:00 | Northeastern University, 360 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA, 02115, United States
For decades, Concord Prison Outreach has sponsored the Holiday Gift Bag Project, providing a bag of simple, useful gifts to each incarcerated man in Concord’s state prisons. Each bag contains toiletries, writing materials, and a greeting card—a reminder that people “outside the walls” care about them during the difficult holiday season.
This year, we’re expanding to serve five correctional facilities, including an additional 1,000 gift bags for the men at Souza Baranowski. Volunteers are needed on Saturday, November 22 at Northeastern University from. 1:00-4:00pm.
Leaving No One Behind:
Along with volunteering, you can extend the impact of this project by sponsoring the cost of holiday gift bags. Together, we can make sure no one is left behind this holiday season. Contribute at donorbox.org/hgb.
Sponsor a Gift Bag

Concord Prison Outreach 2-Day Restorative Justice Training March 2026
2026-03-14 09:00 - 15:00 | West Concord Union Church, 1317 Main Street, Concord, MA, 01742
Concord Prison Outreach 2-Day Restorative Justice Training
This 2-day Restorative Justice training is designed for individuals who are interested in and committed to facilitating the Restorative Justice Book Group program at one of the following facilities: MCI-Framingham, MCI-Norfolk, MCI-Shirley, Middlesex House of Correction, North Central Correctional Institution, Pondville Correctional Center, and Worcester County Jail.
Participants in the training will form a “circle” of engagement, making full attendance essential for a complete and cohesive learning experience. We kindly ask that only those able to attend both sessions register, as full participation is crucial to both the material and group dynamics. If you are unable to commit to both days, please consider joining us for a future training session.

Register HereTraining Overview:
What: 2-Day Restorative Justice Training
Instructor: Sam Williams, lead facilitator
Training Schedule:
Day 1: Saturday, March 14, 9:00-3:00 PM
Day 2: Sunday, March 28, 9:00-3:00 PM
Location: West Concord Union Church, 1317 Main St, Concord, MA 01742
During this comprehensive training, you will gain insights into restorative justice theories, practices, principles, trauma-informed practices, and group facilitation skills. The objective is to equip you with the necessary skills to effectively facilitate our Restorative Justice Reading Group programs.
To express your interest in participating, please register here or go to rjcpo.eventbrite.com. Spots are limited!
