Imagine a kid accused of stealing a backpack—innocent but on the verge of being swallowed by the system. This was the first case of a young person that Candice Jones ever represented. She knew the easy thing to do would be to plead out and end the case but that’s not her style. Candice worked tirelessly, delving into his community, investigating and ultimately getting the case dismissed. Years later, a call from his mother revealed he aspired to be a lawyer. It’s these moments that reaffirm the power of our efforts, no matter how small. This case continues to reinforce to Candice that our little efforts matter, we must keep pushing.
The Center for Improving Youth Justice is truly honored to feature Candice Jones in our Women’s History Month profiles, recognizing her remarkable contributions to transforming the landscape of juvenile justice. As the President and CEO of the Public Welfare Foundation, serving as Director of the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice and in other roles, Candice has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to social change. Her impactful leadership, innovative initiatives and dedication to fostering positive outcomes for young people make her an inspiring figure in the field of justice reform.
Dynamic Origins
– Hailing from the city of Chicago, Candice bring s a unique blend of Midwestern spirit and determination. She admits to being “silly most days,” but when it comes to a challenge, you’ll find Candice rolling up her sleeves and diving in. She likes to get things done. Raised in a moderately large family by a powerhouse single mom, she has three siblings. She currently lives in Washington, DC and has a long-term partner.
Role as a Trailblazer
– She proudly holds the reins as the President and CEO of the Public Welfare Foundation (PWF), steering the ship of positive change. PWF has supported efforts to advance justice and opportunity for people in need. Today, their efforts focus on catalyzing a transformative approach to justice that is community-led, restorative and racially just through investments in criminal justice and youth justice reforms. For the past 6 and 1/2 years, Candice has been leading an exceptional team with passion and vision. Before that, she led the Illinois DJJ for three years and made major changes in how young people were treated, improved educational services, made data more transparent to the public, reduced the number of young people in facilities and eventually closed a facility.
Championing Justice for All Ages
– Candice’s journey into the youth justice field was fueled by a desire to defend those wronged in the criminal justice system. From defending adults to dedicating significant time to young people, her focus stems from the conviction that everyone deserves a fair chance. The young people, in particular, reminded her of her own family members she saw get caught up too easily in the justice systems.
Empowering Young Women
– To the young women embarking on their careers, Candice advises: “Protect space for yourself. Work will get done, success will follow, but amidst the chaos, make sure to prioritize self-care. It’s a secret not everyone tells you, but you need to hear it loud and clear.”
Inspiration from Resilient Women
Candice draws inspiration from the unsung heroes—women. Women who bear the weight of the world on their shoulders, face challenges while maintaining resilience and contribute to a greater cause. She explains: “We hold up a lot of sky in society and we do it all while the world kicks at our shins.”
Addressing Burnout
– In the youth justice field, Candice points to burnout as the glaring issue facing women. Juggling societal expectations, demanding roles and the relentless pursuit of justice takes a toll. It’s a battle worth fighting, but women must acknowledge the need for sustainable practices and self-care.
Candice’s journey, marked by unforgettable moments of impact, reflects the power of persistent efforts, even in seemingly small endeavors. Her dynamic leadership, highlighted in this profile, is a beacon illuminating the transformative path toward a more equitable and fair future. Her call to empower young women resonates, urging them to protect their space in the pursuit of success. While she draws inspiration from other women, she is an inspiration to us.