How to Encourage a Family Member in Prison

Rudy Valdez’ sister, Cindy Shanks, was released in 2018 after serving 10 years for drug conspiracy. She is now reunited with her three daughters, and works for a car dealership.

Rudy made an award-winning feature documentary called “The Sentence” about his sister’s ordeal and how it affected their family. He shares his insights on supporting a loved one in prison.

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“Got a Minute” is a series featuring people who have “walked the walk” in the criminal justice world. Their advice is mostly based on first-hand experience, and is offered to invite people into the FAMM community.

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For nearly three decades, FAMM has united the voices of affected families, the formerly incarcerated, and a range of stakeholders and advocates to fight for a more fair and effective justice system. FAMM’s focus on ending a one-size-fits-all punishment structure has led to reforms to sentencing and prison policies at the state and federal level and is paving the way to programs that support rehabilitation for the 94% of all prisoners who will return to our neighborhoods one day.