Different experiences.
Same mission.

Cynthia is a beacon of compassion and service, driven by an unyielding passion to advocate for those affected by mass incarceration. Her journey was shaped by her own experience and a deep-seeded commitment to make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals caught in the complex web of the criminal justice system. Committed to a desire to effect systemic change, Cynthia works with other non-profit organizations and advocacy groups focusing on criminal justice reform. She invests time actively listening to the experiences and concerns of those impacted by the criminal justice system.

Her story gained public attention when she was featured in the December 2019 issue of United Women in Faith’s Response magazine. The two-page article, ‘A Mother’s Pain,’ highlighted the over sentencing of people of color and low-income individuals. Cynthia and her daughter, Michelle, work together to share their story with those who have lost hope. In October 2023, they represented United Women in Faith at the Free Her Conference in San Juan, Puerto Rico, where they connected with organizations from across the United States. That December, their story was made into a short documentary film to support United Women in Faith’s School-to-Prison Pipeline campaign and encourage others to get involved.

She has worked with other organizations in the community such as EMI (End Mass Incarceration Network), The National Council for Incarcerated and Formerly Incarcerated Women and Girls, has attended Justice Day at the Georgia capitol over the years and mentored other mothers that are experiencing issues within the justice system.

She grew up in St. Paul, Minnesota and relocated to Atlanta in 1980 as part of her job with the airlines. She currently serves as a consultant for Racial Justice and Decarceration with the United Women in Faith. She has two adult daughters and three grandsons.

Christopher Santiago is a seasoned financial wellness and small-business coach with more than 18 years of experience in financial services, including lending, investment guidance, and complex business solutions. As a Financial Coach with Operation HOPE’s HOPE Inside Crenshaw program, Christopher is dedicated to expanding financial literacy, economic opportunity, and long-term financial stability for individuals, families, and entrepreneurs.

Throughout his career, Christopher has helped individuals strengthen their financial foundations through credit-building initiatives, small-business development, and personalized financial coaching. His work includes facilitating monthly three-hour educational workshops and providing individualized guidance focused on credit improvement, business planning, and sustainable financial growth.

Fluent in Spanish, Christopher is passionate about making financial education and economic opportunities more accessible to underserved communities. His approach reflects his belief that "a little advice can go a long way," emphasizing the importance of practical knowledge, meaningful guidance, and empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their financial futures.

As a member of the Advisory Board of More Than a Number- Behind Bars, Inc. (MTN-BB), Christopher brings extensive financial expertise and a commitment to community-centered economic development. Serving in the area of Fundraising & Philanthropy, he will help inform the organization’s approach to financial sustainability, strategic partnerships, resource development, and opportunities that support its mission.

Christopher’s professional background also complements MTN-BB’s commitment to personal and financial readiness, helping strengthen the organization’s vision of providing justice-impacted individuals with the knowledge, resources, and opportunities necessary to achieve financial independence and lasting success.

Roberta "Toni" Meyers is a nationally respected criminal justice reform advocate with nearly 30 years of experience advancing public policy, workforce development, and opportunities for justice-impacted individuals. She serves as Vice President of State Strategy & Reentry at the Legal Action Center, where she also directs the National H.I.R.E. Network, an initiative dedicated to improving employment opportunities for people with criminal records.

Throughout her career, Toni has worked alongside policymakers, advocates, and directly impacted communities to advance meaningful legislative reforms. She has testified before Congress and state legislatures, advised government officials, and contributed to numerous publications addressing barriers to employment, housing, education, and successful reintegration.

Trindalin V. Browning is a passionate reentry advocate and justice-impacted leader who transforms lived experience into meaningful change. Known as “The Quiet Storm,” she serves as Reentry & Office Supervisor at Women on the Rise GA, where she helps women navigate the challenges of returning home after incarceration and empowers them to rebuild their lives with dignity, confidence, and purpose.

With a deep understanding of the barriers to successful reintegration, Trindalin brings compassion, practical knowledge, and a strong commitment to creating pathways toward stability and opportunity. Her lived and professional experiences provide a valuable perspective on the importance of community support, second chances, and meaningful reentry services.

As a member of the More Than a Number- Behind Bars, Inc. Advisory Board, Trindalin contributes her expertise in reentry advocacy and reintegration to advance the organization's mission of breaking barriers, restoring dignity, and ensuring that justice-impacted individuals are recognized for their potential rather than defined by their past.

Yolanda H. Caraway is an award-winning author, entrepreneur, and nationally respected leader with over 40 years of experience in politics, public affairs, strategic communications, and social advocacy. As founder of The Caraway Group, she has worked with major corporations, political organizations, and nonprofit leaders to advance equity, inclusion, and meaningful social change.

A lifelong advocate for justice and opportunity, Yolanda is also co-author of For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Politics. As a member of the More Than a Number- Behind Bars, Inc. Advisory Board, she brings invaluable expertise in public policy, strategic partnerships, and social justice advocacy, strengthening the organization's mission to break systemic barriers, restore dignity, and expand opportunities for justice-impacted individuals and communities.