Winfred Payne

"Based on my interactions with Winfred Payne and my observations of the work he has done with Alternatives, there is no question in my mind that he has an important message to deliver. The youth he serves have been abandoned in many respects, but they trust him. He is unswerving in his commitment to guide the youth of Alternatives, and the youth he encounters on the streets, down a different path of self-respect, opportunities, and, most importantly, hope."

Irma McClaurin, PhD
Anthropologist and writer, Founding Executive Director of the University of Minnesota Urban Research and Outreach/Engagement Center

"We are impressed by Mr. Payne’s commitment and credibility: as someone who spent 25 years in the prison system, he has emerged as a strong advocate, a role model and community resource."

Anne Weyandt
President,
Anoka Technical College

In My Own Words

The life story of Winfred Payne from childhood through imprisonment and the re-entry process. Mr Payne describes his personal struggles as an ex-offender as well as his successes in discovering his strengths and founding Alternatives: A Program for Youth.

Keeping it Real: Causes of Recidivism

An exploration of some of the struggles ex-offenders face upon reentering society. Mr Payne identifies some of the primary reasons ex-offenders return to prison and how they can be prevented.

Second Chance Act and Making the Most of It

The Second Chance Act is federal legislation designed to improve outcomes for people returning to the community from prisons and jails by authorizing federal grants to government agencies and non-profit organizations to provide employment assistance, substance abuse treatment, housing, family programming, mentoring, victims support, and other services that can help reduce recidivism. Mr Payne shows ex-offenders what this act means for them and how they can effectively maximize their options.

Soft Skills Training for Ex-Offenders

Mr Payne educates ex-offenders on skills necessary to success in re-entering society in the 21st century. The workshop provides guidance in skills such as resume building, interviewing techniques, and dressing for success.

What is Restorative Justice For?

Restorative Justice has become well known and respected in criminal justice circles. Mr Payne, who has completed Restorative Justice Training, explains the restorative justice model, including choices and consequences and the value of accepting responsibility for one's past, present and future actions.

Is Prison Inevitable for African-American Youth?

According to a recent report from the Children’s Defense Fund, an African American boy has a 1 in 13 chance of going to prison before he turns 20 and a 1 in 6 chance of going to prison before he dies. An African American girl has a 1 in 28 chance of going to prison before she dies. Why is this the case? Mr Payne discusses the goals of programs like Alternatives: A Program for Youth and the essential tenets of guiding African-American Youth away from prison towards lives of independence and success.