Community Advisory Committee

Empowering Community Voices in Justice Reform

The Community Advisory Committee (CAC) is a vital part of Allegheny County’s efforts to reduce the jail population and eliminate racial disparities in the criminal justice system. The CAC brings together individuals with diverse backgrounds, including those with personal and professional experience with the justice system, to guide and inform ongoing reform efforts.

This committee is a collaboration between the Allegheny County Department of Human Services, the County Executive’s Office, and partners from across the local criminal justice system. The CAC plays a key role in holding local leaders accountable to reform commitments and amplifying community voices in policy and decision-making.

Purpose of the Community Advisory Committee (CAC)

  • Provide community-led input to local criminal justice agencies and reform efforts
  • Support public awareness and storytelling around justice reform strategies
  • Partner with stakeholders to identify and address system-level gaps
  • Promote transparency, inclusion, and equitable outcomes across the justice system

Member Responsibilities

Members of the CAC will:

  • Attend regular meetings and engage in discussions with justice system stakeholders
  • Participate in public storytelling efforts such as podcasts, film screenings, and community forums
  • Collaborate on public outreach, education, and event planning
  • Contribute to efforts that increase community awareness and trust in the justice system
  • Receive compensation for their time and contributions

Membership

We are looking for individuals from a variety of races, genders, ages, professions, and life experiences. We especially encourage participation from those directly impacted by the criminal justice system.

Benefits to the Community

  • Transparency and Trust: Open lines of communication between the community and justice system partners
  • Inclusive Reform: More effective and equitable solutions through the inclusion of directly impacted voices
  • Access to Resources: Improved awareness of local services and supports

Apply to join the the CAC

The application deadline is June 30, 2025. You can apply in one of these three ways:

  1. Submit this form
  2. Schedule a phone call by emailing us
  3. Record a video explaining why you want to join and answering as many of the questions on the online form as possible, and email it to us

Contact the CAC

To learn more about the CAC, please email us.

CAC Overview(PDF, 143KB)

This initiative is supported in part by the MacArthur Foundation’s Safety and Justice Challenge.

DHS Advisory Boards

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