When Nikita was in 6th grade, his dad went to prison. In this episode, Nikita explores with me the loneliness he felt knowing that his experience with his dad—essentially a relationship over the phone—was different than many of his peers. He talks about the advice he wished he would have gotten from his dad, but also the ways his dad was a consistent and guiding force, even from a distance. For the past three years, Nikita was a member of the Osborne Association’s Youth Action Council, for teens with an incarcerated parent. Today, at age 18, he’s in his first few months of college at Binghamton University in New York—and he wonders if he would have gotten there without Osborne.

About The Osborne Association:

Based out of New York, they’re a mission to serve individuals, families, and communities affected by the criminal justice system. They provide programs that offer opportunities for people to heal from and repair harm, restore their lives, and thrive. They challenge systems rooted in racism and retribution and fight for policies and practices that promote true safety, justice, and liberation.

The Youth Action Council provides civic engagement and advocacy training and as well as growth opportunities for young people ages 15 to 18 who have currently or recently incarcerated parents.

Connect with Osborne:

Website: https://www.osborneny.org

Facebook: @osborneny

Instagram: @osborneassociation