The Calvin C. Johnson, Jr. Memorial Fund is a commendable initiative that honors the legacy of Calvin C. Johnson, Jr. and supports Georgia Innocence Project in our vital mission. The fund is specifically tailored to provide essential social and reentry support services for Georgia Innocence Project clients nearing exoneration, and for freed and exonerated innocent individuals in Georgia.
The emotional toll of wrongful conviction can be immense. This memorial fund serves as a conduit for financial and emotional support, aiming to alleviate the challenges faced by exonerees and their loved ones. Read on to find out more about the meaningful work this fund enables.
Donate By Mail
Georgia Innocence Project Attn: Calvin C. Johnson, Jr. Memorial Fund 104 Marietta St NW, Suite 440 Atlanta, GA 30303
Your contribution to this meaningful fund plays a crucial role in supporting Georgia's freed and exonerated community in their transition into freedom. Explore the parameters of the fund below and discover how your generous donation will make a significant difference in several key areas.
- Professional Counseling and Mental Health Services
- Exoneree Direct Financial Support
- Peer Support and Community Building Among Exonerees
- Professional Development, Training, and Support for Exonerees
- Technology and IT Support for Exonerees
- Wellness and Mental Health Visits for Georgia Innocence Project Clients in Prison
- Advocacy Work Involving Exoneree Compensation and Social Security Benefits
- Honoraria for Community Education by Exonerees, such as Speaking Engagements
- Client Services Advocate & Associated Funding
The Legacy of Calvin C. Johnson, Jr.
In 1999, Calvin C. Johnson, Jr. was the first person in the state of Georgia to be freed from wrongful incarceration by DNA evidence, with help of the Innocence Project. In 2002, Georgia Innocence Project was founded and Calvin soon became a steadfast partner in fighting for justice for those convicted of crimes they did not commit.
Over the years, Calvin led advocacy efforts across the state, expanding a reach to thousands on the issues of wrongful convictions. In addition, Calvin served on Georgia Innocence Project's board of directors, including serving as Board Chair, making him the first exoneree ever to hold the position across the entire Innocence Network.
As a friend and mentor, Calvin was the spirit and soul of innocence work throughout Georgia. The Calvin C. Johnson, Jr. Memorial Fund is an initiative that honors the legacy of Calvin and continues Georgia Innocence Project’s crucial mission.
Calvin C. Johnson, Jr. Memorial Fund Founding Contributors
Judith C. Johnson and Eric V. Hill
Tara Johnson/Burkett, Stephen Johnson,
Julie Seaman
Kenny Baer
Maddy deLeon and Bobby Cohen
Barry Scheck
Peter Neufeld and Adele Bernhard
Steve and Christine Lefler
Greg Hampikian
Andrew and Dorothy Tananbaum
Kim Gokce
Nancy Clipper
Brian Poe
The Joseph B. Thompson Jr. Family
Meagan Hurley and Addison Gantt
James C. Bonner, Jr.
Jodi Dick
Founding Contributors made a donation of $500 or more to the fund by September 15, 2024.
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Donate By Mail
Georgia Innocence Project Attn: Calvin C. Johnson, Jr. Memorial Fund 104 Marietta St NW, Ste 440 Atlanta, GA 30303