Saving youth sentenced to life without parole from death by incarceration
Meet The Team
Digital Marketing and Fundraising Intern
Ian Lewis
During Ian's internship at Alternative Sentencing and Reentry Solutions (ASRS), he has undertaken various responsibilities that have enhanced both his skills and the organization’s efficiency. He designed business cards for himself and his coworkers, researched web design through Wix to improve the organization's website, and created business email addresses for the team. Additionally, he has supported his coworkers with their technological needs, developed charts for grant proposals to help fund the organization, and assisted his colleagues with their projects.
Assistant Sentencing Mitigating & Re-entry Specialist
Nuwara Usman
Nuwara, originally from Indonesia, attends the Early College Alliance at Eastern Michigan University. She is passionate about criminal justice and prison reform and is eager to support ASRS’s efforts in alternative sentencing and reentry. She aspires to practice law as an attorney in the future. During her internship at ASRS, she has delved into understanding the organization and similar entities such as the Detroit Justice Center, SADO, and A Brighter Way. She has worked closely with a fellow intern, Hosanna Zerisenai, on securing sponsorships and grants for the organization, gaining valuable insights into the formatting and styling of grant proposals. This experience will inform our approach to future grant applications.
Assistant Sentencing Mitigation & Reentry Specialist
Hosanna Zerisenai
Throughout her internship at ASRS, Hosanna has researched alternative sentencing opportunities that could incorporate within the organization. She collaborated with a fellow intern to draft a grant letter to Ryan Mardini, a lawyer specializing in Corporate Evaluation and Strategy, to request funding for future ASRS events such as the Returning Citizens Luncheon and the Mentoring Program. Additionally, she is currently working on a letter to the Washtenaw County Prosecutor's Office to inform them about the work of ASRS and request a tour of their office and University of Michigan classes.
Administrative Assistant
​​Barbara Hughes
Barbara Hughes, a single mother of three and U.S. Army veteran, is studying to become a Human Service Worker at Washtenaw Community College. With two AA degrees in the legal field as a Paralegal and Legal Assistant, she brings valuable skills to her role with the Alternative Sentencing and Reentry Solutions program, led by Eddie Sanders, LLMSW.
Barbara prepares for her role by researching the program and collaborating with interns on their projects. She organizes schedules, communicates with interns, and provides support as they navigate their responsibilities. Passionate about helping others, Barbara is committed to making a positive impact through her volunteer work.
Ayden Zimmer
Digital Media Specialist Intern at the Washtenaw Community College Entrepreneurship Center
Ayden, a dedicated high school student enrolled in the Washtenaw Community College's High School Program, brings a passion for technology and a commitment to help social justice to ASRS. Collaborating closely with founder Barakah, he has been instrumental in launching key initiatives on the digital landscape that support the agency’s mission.
He has demonstrated proficiency in various aspects of digital strategy, including creating and optimizing the agency’s website, setting up professional email systems, designing compelling graphics, and ensuring digital platforms comply with accessibility and legal requirements. His entrepreneurial spirit extends beyond his primary role, where he also mentors and assists entrepreneurs at the center with website development and digital marketing strategies.
Our team's visit to the Washtenaw County Prosecutor's Office with Eli Savit and Victoria Burton-Harris
Barakah CEO of ASRS and Michelle Director of WCC Entrepreneurship Center welcoming SummerWorks 2024 interns
Thank You!
