Lashawn Brown's Homecoming Fund

After dedicating the past 8 years of his life to learning how to read and addressing the trauma he endured as a child, Lashawn Brown is finally coming home. We (Bailey, Jin, and Sam) had the privilege of meeting Mr. Brown as volunteer advocates of NYU Law’s Parole Advocacy Project. Throughout our work with Mr. Brown, we have been struck by his joy, determination, and unwavering kindness.

All funds you contribute will directly support Mr. Brown as he addresses his immediate needs upon his release in February 2025, including food, clothing, personal hygiene items, transportation, and a cell phone to help him find stable employment and start anew.

Mr. Brown hopes to use the fundraiser to raise awareness of people’s endless capacity to learn, grow, and change. After witnessing a senseless act of violence in his youth, Mr. Brown struggled to read and write in secret. His illiteracy persisted into adulthood without access to the resources he needed to address his deepest insecurity. In 2017, he decided that enough was enough. Mr. Brown approached a fellow incarcerated individual and asked him to teach him how to read. At 42 years old, Mr. Brown is leaving prison with a GED, a love for reading, and a fierce desire to give back to the community that raised him. His family and friends are incredibly proud of how far he has come.

Mr. Brown feels he is returning home “a more complete man.” He looks forward to hugging his family, watching a Liberty game, and—for the very first time—going to the library and checking out a book. Please consider donating to ensure he can access food, clothing, a cell phone, and whatever else he needs as he re-enters society. Any support is greatly appreciated as Mr. Brown prepares for this next chapter.

Thank you.