About Us
Growing up in a high crime neighbourhood taught us resilience. We witnessed how poverty, systemic failures, and over policing tore families apart leaving youth trapped in cycles of incarceration.
Out of that struggle came hope. That hope became Handcuff Status Foundation- Strength Breaks Barriers and Builds Walls.
We believe justice is more than punishment; it’s about healing, restoration, and change. Through mental health support, education,youth empowerment and reintegration programs we help those impacted by the criminal justice system rebuild their lives.
At Handcuff Status Foundation, we’re not just fighting past injustices we’re building a future where families stay together, communities thrive, and everyone, regardless of their past, has the chance to succeed.
Our Mission
At Handcuff Status Foundation, our mission is to bridge the gap between incarceration and reintegration by offering programs that promote personal growth, mental wellness, education, and community connection.
We empower youth, incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals, and their families to rebuild their lives with dignity, purpose, and opportunity.
We envision a society rooted in empathy, equity, and opportunity where those once confined by the system are empowered to rise, lead, and contribute to thriving communities. A world where second chances aren’t rare they’re standard. Guided by our core values of empowerment, integrity, equity, compassion, and collaboration, we are committed to creating lasting change through honesty, inclusivity, and collective action that honours the humanity of every individual.
Meet the Board Members
We are proud to introduce the passionate and dedicated individuals who make up the Handcuff Status Foundation Board of Directors. Each member brings unique expertise, lived experience, and a shared commitment to advancing our mission of transformative justice, reintegration, and community healing.
Together, we strive to build a more just, compassionate, and empowered society, one that believes in second chances and lasting change.
Executive Director
Shantea Murray
Shantea Murray brings visionary leadership and a deep commitment to prison reform and restorative justice. As Executive Director and co-founder, she is the driving force behind the Foundation’s mission to empower incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals. Through advocacy, education, and reintegration programs, Shantea continues to lead with passion, authenticity, and purpose.
Community Engagement Specialist
Gloria Sze Ming
Gloria is passionate about building inclusive, supportive, and resilient communities. With a strong focus on empowerment and collaboration, she leads initiatives that amplify underrepresented voices and strengthen community connections. Her work ensures that every individual regardless of circumstance is heard, valued, and included.
Recreational Programs Coordinator
Clive Rooms
Clive is dedicated to developing innovative and therapeutic recreational programs for incarcerated individuals. His initiatives promote mental and physical well-being, encourage teamwork, and create safe spaces for healing and personal growth. Through his leadership, participants rediscover hope and purpose on their path to reintegration.
Prisoners Rights Advocate
Sherri Gordon
Sherri has long been a steadfast champion for the dignity and rights of incarcerated individuals. Her advocacy ensures that the justice system upholds fairness, humanity, and accountability. At the Foundation, she plays a crucial role in advancing policy awareness, supporting families, and promoting equitable treatment for all.
Our board’s shared vision reflects our belief that true justice begins with opportunity, healing, and community. Together, we are transforming lived experience into leadership, building pathways for hope, empowerment, and reintegration across Ontario and beyond.
