Our Mission

Reading Between the Lines creates a unique space for justice-impacted people to exercise critical thinking, reflexivity, and interpersonal communication skills via literature and other forms of art.

Our goal is to strengthen our participants’ critical thinking and interpersonal communication skills by engaging them in critical discussions, resulting in improving social-emotional health and reducing recidivism.

Critical thinking skills are essential in everyday life as they empower us to make informed decisions, solve problems effectively, and navigate complex situations with clarity. By analyzing information, questioning assumptions, and evaluating evidence, critical thinkers can approach challenges with a more objective perspective, leading to better outcomes in both personal and professional contexts. These skills not only enhance one's ability to make sound judgments but also foster more meaningful and constructive interactions with others.

Communication skills are often overlooked and are a critical component to ensuring returning citizens maintain positive interpersonal relationships with family, friends and colleagues upon returning to society. Our method creates a space for discussion, leading to emotional, social, intellectual, and cultural growth, and understanding. We believe this could be the difference between change and stagnancy in their battle with justice involvement.

“I AM ABLE TO LOOK AT DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVES. NOT JUST WHAT IT WAS, BUT WHAT IT COULD BE.”