LETTER FROM OUR CEO: “Help Us Step Into 2026 Strong”
As 2025 comes to a close, I am full of gratitude for this community, for your generosity, and your unwavering belief that every woman and girl deserves dignity, resources, and another chance to turn their lives around. Your support has allowed women and girls who have been impacted by the criminal legal system to receive education and employment training, providing a safe space for survivors of violence and neglect, and allowing us to advocate for systems that lift rather than punish. Your presence and investment is greatly appreciated whether in time, in voice, or resources, it has made all the difference.
A few extraordinary moments I would like to share with you, so you understand the impact that you have had:
Two seniors in our Operation Girls program, first-generation college students have been accepted to University of Holy Cross, Loyola University, New Orleans, Dillard University and Clark Atlanta University.
Seven years after launching our College-in-Prison program, our first cohort graduated with Bachelor of Arts degrees and an average GPA of 3.77. EVERY graduate graduated with honors.
In collaboration with the MacArthur Foundation Safety & Justice Challenge and the City of New Orleans, OR brought together community leaders and public safety officials to lead a mapping session to develop solutions to the rising incarceration rates of women.
2025 was a year of shared stories, shared strength, and shared hope. Every time you volunteered, donated, shared a story, or simply stood with someone in need, you showed what our community truly looks like. Thank you for showing up — for your neighbors, for justice, and for the vision that every person deserves a chance to restore their life and discover new possibilities.
Donate here to continue to build off the work that was done in 2025. As we enter 2026 grounded in community and ready to make an even greater impact, we want to celebrate Operation Restoration’s TEN-YEAR ANNIVERSARY. Thank you and happy holidays.
In Solidarity,
Syrita Steib
Founder, President & CEO
Operation Restoration