Meet Our Executive Director, Jimmy Wu

Jimmy Wu's remarkable journey from incarceration to leadership stands as a beacon of hope and transformation. As the Executive Director of InsideOUT Writers (IOW), Jimmy draws from his profound personal experiences to drive change and advocate for juvenile justice reform.

Over twenty-five years ago, at the age of 16, Jimmy made a decision that led to 13 ½ years of incarceration. It was during his time in a Los Angeles juvenile detention facility that he encountered IOW and became one of its first creative writing students. This encounter ignited a spark within him, fueling his passion for writing and planting the seeds for his future advocacy.

Today, Jimmy's work at IOW encompasses coordinating comprehensive reentry services and support for young individuals returning to their communities. He also oversees administrative functions and spearheads fundraising initiatives to ensure the sustainability of IOW’s mission. His heartfelt hope is that the young people IOW serves will learn from his journey and choose a path of resilience and positive change.

Throughout his nine years with IOW, Jimmy has taken on various roles, including Case Manager, Alumni Advocacy Director, Interim Executive Director, and now Executive Director. Each role has further solidified his commitment to empowering youth and fostering transformative opportunities.

Beyond his work at IOW, Jimmy's dedication to justice reform extends to his involvement with the Alternatives to Incarceration (ATI) Work Group, formed by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors. As a voting member, he has played a crucial role in developing strategies for community safety and prioritizing reforms for justice-impacted populations. Additionally, he has contributed to The Ride Home Program, part of Stanford Law School's Justice Advocacy Project, providing essential support to nonviolent inmates reentering society under California's "three strikes" law.

Jimmy's personal journey of redemption and resilience has deepened his resolve to advocate for systemic change. In recognition of his impactful work, he was honored in Good Morning America's "Who is Making AAPI History in 2021: The GMA Inspiration List."

Through his leadership and unwavering dedication, Jimmy Wu continues to inspire and drive meaningful progress in the realm of juvenile justice reform. His story is a testament to the power of transformation and the profound impact of second chances.