Today we’d like to introduce you to Redemption Foundation.
Hi Redemption, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
The Redemption Foundation is a 501(c)(3) focused exclusively on addressing the ongoing social and economic harms caused by cannabis prohibition. Through family stabilization, reentry support, economic opportunity, and advocacy, we serve individuals and families affected by nonviolent cannabis incarceration.
As a teenager, our founder, Ryan Basore, was injured in an accident and was prescribed opioid pain medication to manage his recovery. After being introduced to cannabis by a family member, he discovered it provided effective pain relief without the side effects he experienced from prescription painkillers. That experience changed the course of his life and sparked a deep belief in the therapeutic potential of cannabis. Years later, after serving prison time for a nonviolent cannabis conviction, Ryan turned his experience into action. We exist to ensure that people incarcerated for nonviolent cannabis offenses remain connected to their families and communities, because hope, human connection, and knowing someone cares can make a profound difference during incarceration and beyond.
We are based out of Lansing, MI. We have 2 main programs, the first is our Commissary Program. We provide funds every month to over 200 nonviolent cannabis inmates across the country.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Our founder was following the medical marijuana guidelines at the time of the raid. He served 3 years in federal prison. It was tough when he was first released. He suffered from PTSD and also was now a felon. He created his brand and this non profit foundation from nothing.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about The Redemption Foundation?
The Redemption Foundation is 501(c)(3) dedicated to addressing the ongoing social and economic harms caused by cannabis prohibition. We support individuals and families affected by nonviolent cannabis incarceration. We are proud to support those affected by the war on cannabis. Its legal in many states yet there are still so many locked up for this. Ryan created both the Redemption Cannabis brand and the Foundation to work hand in hand. The brand gives back to the Foundation. Its super mission focused! I think that is what sets us apart. We don’t simply advocate, we provide tangible support. Our Commissary Program delivers monthly financial assistance to incarcerated individuals so they can purchase essential items such as food, hygiene products, clothing, shoes, and other necessities that help preserve dignity, health, and hope. We also provide reentry grants, family assistance, and we work alongside mission aligned organizations to expand access to resources, strenghten reentry support, and advocate for policy reform.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
If you are going to sell cannabis in the US, we feel you have to give back to those that paved the way. We feel you have to give back to those affected by cannabis prohibition. We have a business model giving directly back to the community that needs it most, those still sitting in prison and thier families holding things down while their loved ones are away. We are building a movement that restores hope and works toward a future where no one is left behind because of outdated cannabis laws.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.theredemptionfoundation.org
- Instagram: @redemptionfdn
- Facebook: redemptionfoundation
- Twitter: redemptionfdn
