Latest posts by Leonard Johnson
(see all)Parenting Behind Bars: Terrina E. Flora-Alexander’s Inspiring Work with Incarcerated Parents
Meet Terrina E. Flora Alexander, a peer Community Navigator and dedicated advocate for parenting while incarcerated. Growing up in Denver’s East Side neighborhood, Terrina faced a challenging life that led to her serving nearly 16 years in prison. During this time, she was separated from her son Addison, who was just six when she went in and 21 when she came out. Despite the hardship, Terrina’s determination to reconnect with her son fueled her mission to change. Through programs like APART, which allowed weekend visits with her son, she stayed focused on reuniting with him. Her motto, “live to leave,” guided her decisions and kept her on a positive path.
Since her release, Terrina has become a powerful advocate for incarcerated parents, even testifying in favor of Senate Bill 23-039, which aims to reduce the separation between incarcerated parents and their children. Now working at the Don’t Look Back Center, she helps others with recovery and reentry into society. Terrina’s story is one of resilience and redemption, and she urges those still incarcerated to ask for help and use available resources. Her journey from darkness to light inspires us all to support initiatives that help bring our loved ones home and provide the support they need to succeed.
Learn more about the Don’t Look Back Center: https://thedontlookbackcenter.org