The Just Us Solutions Team
Our team has over 60 years of experience in carceral settings and navigating the criminal legal system. We firmly believe in solving problems by involving stakeholders who experience the problems. Our goal is to tackle the root causes head-on.
Just Us Solutions was born after Jacob leveraged his release from prison through resentencing offered by Senate Bill 6164. Within 30 days, his legal comprehension caught the attention of the Washington State Office of Public Defense, securing a consultancy role. His deep understanding of the law and its real-world impact on those who have lost traditional avenues of representation fueled his passion for helping others. This drive led him to bring on former colleagues from his time during incarceration and, together, they are the backbone of Just Us Solutions. The organization now focuses on developing strategies to assist those affected by the criminal legal system. The belief that the best solutions come from those closest to the problem is at the heart of their work, empowering them to make a real difference for system-impacted individuals that they understand all too well.
Director
Jacob Ivan Schmitt
Jacob, a childhood trauma survivor, spent over 30 years in institutional settings. Through self-education in law, he enhanced his moral reasoning. Now, he develops strategies to support those still affected by their traumas and entangled in the criminal legal system. When all hope is lost, Jacob believes.
Special Projects Planner
Ella Foskett
Growing up in the shadow of San Quentin, this California native knew that more could be done in the way of delivering information to marginalized, forgotten populations. As a Univ. of Washington student, Ella is an activist for the betterment of those that are suffering under the weight of being system impacted.
Assistant Director
Rory Andes
As a combat veteran and formerly incarcerated, Rory knows what it means to come home needing support after traumas, especially after prison. His focus is on coordinating resources and stakeholders, providing guidance, and assisting clemency, all while managing the daily operational aspects of the company.
Post-Conviction Paralegal
Ann Joyce
Ann is a consultant for the Office of Public Defense. She has a background as a paralegal and manager at the Washington Appellate Project, where she worked from 1993 to 2021. Her extensive experience in the legal field has equipped her with valuable skills and knowledge, making her a key contributor to her current role with the SB5046 Project.
Incarcerated Advisor
Yusef Reader
Yusef is a thought leader and prison-abolitionist, and has transformed his life since 2002 through faith, education, and self-improvement. He co-founded critical prison programs, developed curriculum, and mentored others. Yusef brings experience, commitment, and intense passion for his work.
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Yusef works with JustUs Solutions from inside prison. He is a powerful writer and thought leader who we are honored to work with. On his website and substack Yusef posts impactful pieces about his life, transformation, and incarceration journey. Check out his work here:
Special Projects
Raymond Williams
Raymond Williams is a writer, musician, and organizer for system change. Raised by the state and incarcerated for the majority of his life, Raymond knows the value that lived experience brings to public policy. He brings years of experience as an organizer from within prison. Raymond's accomplishments in journalism, his role in writing the Act for Civic Engagement, and vision on bringing people together for viable solutions to common problems make him an invaluable asset to the Just US team.