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ABOUT

Graduation
BEYOND THE BOX

Beyond the Box is a proactive mission to start breaking down established legal and social barriers that are limiting and prohibiting System Impacted People from pursuing higher education once released. Our mission is to help break down these barriers from the roots up starting with legislative reforms, to directly engaging with schools about these social-justice issues, while simultaneously bringing it to the awareness of society. Our cause is supported by the individual successes of those who have been released, have been enrolled into an institute of higher education, and have not returned to jail or prison. Our case is made stronger with supporting statistical evidence showing a significant reduction in recidivism for post-incarcerated individuals who have access to higher education.

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Beyond the Box is one of a few organizations whose concern for the oft forgotten members of society is at the core of its directive. Every individual walking into and out of those cells and walls has a world of potential that is severely hampered by both social stigmas and legal policies. Beyond the Box seeks to lift these chains and allow these individuals the opportunity to not only improve their life, but to make the world around them better. An opportunity we all pray for but few receive.

WHO HAS GONE BEYOND THE BOX?
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Lousiana was the FIRST state to formally prohibit the 'box' on college applications in 2017. In 2019, the Common App removed all criminal history questions from their college applications. Over 1,000 schools accept the Common App.

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Read more about their journey from Annie Phoenix, co-founder and policy strategist of the initiative.

BEYOND THE BOX QUICK FACTS
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The rate of recidivism among formerly-incarcerated people with a Bachelor's degree. Compared to a 50% recidivism rate in Georgia.

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Nearly 72% of colleges nationally require criminal history information on their applications. All 26 USG schools ask about criminal histories on their applications.

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The rate of rejection faced by felony-convicted applicants applying to college compared to general population.

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The number of Georgians with a criminal history.

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