Meet the People Behind the Mission
ED SLAUGHTER, FOUNDER
Ed was wrongfully incarcerated for 33 years. During that time, he witnessed a troubling pattern: people completing their sentences, being released, and then returning to prison. He heard countless reasons why, and all pointed to a lack of comprehensive support for those reentering society.
After his own release, Ed experienced firsthand how difficult that transition can be. Driven by a deep sense of purpose, he set out to change the system and ensure others wouldn’t face the same struggle alone.
Ed's vision is now the heart of our mission: We’re here to reduce recidivism. Once you get out, we’ll help you stay out. We aim to break the cycle of incarceration by providing the resources and support returning citizens truly need.
Today, that vision is strengthened by a dedicated leadership team and board of directors who share Ed’s commitment to transforming lives. Together, we represent a diverse group of professionals, advocates, community leaders, and supporters who have embraced the mission and invested our time, expertise, and resources to help make it a reality.
While Ed’s lived experience inspired the founding of Stay Out, Inc., our collective leadership is united by a common belief: every returning citizen deserves the opportunity, support, and resources needed to build a successful future. By surrounding Ed with a team of passionate champions, we are expanding the impact of his vision and working to create lasting change in the communities we serve.
Together, we can create pathways to success for returning citizens. Reach out to learn more, get involved, donate, and be part of the movement to break the cycle of incarceration.

