From Survival to Stability: Meet Jeffrey Dorr-Slowey

Photo Credit: Emily Baxter

Reintroducing the Liberation of Leaders Fellowship Through Real Stories

At T.O.N.E. U.P., transformation starts with people—not programs. And few embody that truth like Jeffrey Dorr-Slowey, a current T.O.N.E.U.P. Fellow whose story reminds us that progress isn’t always linear, but it is possible.

“Being on parole is always trying when I'm doing what I need to build my life anew. Sometimes, situations pop up where technical violations are a thing that I need to work through,” Jeffrey shares. “The process of doing amazing community work allows the benefit of a doubt—because I am allowed the work to speak for me. Even if the process is traumatic and trying, the work we do here squashes any negative thoughts or feelings. I get to move on with the learned experience.”

Jeffrey recently secured housing—an important and emotional milestone in his reentry journey. His resilience, leadership, and dedication to community work prove that justice-impacted individuals don’t need pity. They need opportunity, trust, and the tools to rebuild.

A Platform. A Pathway. A Lifeline.

The Liberation of Leaders Fellowship isn’t your typical reentry program—it’s a leadership and healing platform for individuals like Jeffrey who are rebuilding their lives after incarceration. Designed for real people facing real barriers, the fellowship provides holistic, human-first support including:

• Expungement and legal navigation

• Employment and economic mobility coaching

• Housing and resource connections

• Civic engagement and voting rights restoration

• Mental health and trauma-informed support

• One-on-one mentorship and peer-led leadership development

Every fellow has a voice. Every service is rooted in lived experience, trust, and strategy.

Want to Help Someone Rise?

Your support makes it possible for justice-impacted leaders to thrive—not just survive.

Become a Steward by giving monthly or making a one-time contribution to our general fund.

Share this article with parole officers, social service providers, or nonprofits working in reentry.

Refer a Future Fellow who’s ready to lead and heal—with the right support behind them.

We’re Building a Movement, Not a Moment

At T.O.N.E. U.P., we’re not here to reform people—we’re here to uplift them. With your partnership, we can scale this model, expand our reach, and ensure that every returning citizen is welcomed with open arms and real resources.

Learn more at toneup.org/liberation-of-leaders-fellowship

General inquiries: info@toneup.org

Instagram: @TONEUP_MN

LinkedIn: @T.O.N.E. U.P.