Society Impact
"And here we are, at the center of the arc, trapped in the gaudiest, most valuable, and most improbable water wheel the world has ever seen. Everything now, we must assume, is in our hands; we have no right to assume otherwise."
- James Baldwin
Our work:
Ending cycles of incarceration.
By assisting justice-involved individuals in securing work, job training, education, and legal assistance, we reduce recidivism rates in their communities, making them safer while saving tax payer money.
Helping veterans.
Veterans face unique issues in the legal system. By helping them access housing, jobs, mental health & legal services, and other basic needs, we serve those who served us.
Securing the right to counsel.
Every American has the right to effective counsel. We help communities establish public defense systems that secure this right for everyone, and make legal systems more efficient and fair.
Legislative initiatives.
We assist policymakers in creating and advancing legislation that strengthens public systems and serves the common good.
Social impact & pay for success.
We assist government partners and non governmental organizations in creating social impact, pay for success models that initiate important public benefit programs which do not create additional burdens for taxpayers.
Brownfield remediation & housing.
We help communities repurpose old, abandoned, and contaminated properties and obtain site plan approvals for workforce housing projects.
Community learning events.
We conduct community classrooms, speaking engagements, and other events that educate, raise awareness, and empower communities to take informed action on critical social issues.
Research & writing.
We share research and thoughtful writings on urgent social challenges that aim to inform public understanding and inspire change.
Our purpose:
Based in Portland, Maine, Society Impact helps strengthen rural and urban communities through justice reform initiatives, building public benefit programs, conducting community classrooms, arranging legal services for underprivileged people, remediating contaminated urban properties, planning for affordable housing, and educating people on the ways in which law and economic policies affects their lives.
In certain cases, we will assist government partners and non governmental organizations in creating social impact, pay for success models which incentivize the initiation of otherwise unattainable, critical public benefit programs. Our criteria for selecting these programs is based primarily on the nature of the services involved, the absence of existing political will for government to fund the programs, the terms and conditions of the funding and the compatibility of the proposed social impact investors with the underlying mission and purpose of the intended public benefit.
We believe that everyone deserves access to high-quality, publicly accountable services, ideally funded and provided directly by the public sector. However, in these days of uncertainty about federally funded social programs, pay for success models may in some cases provide a viable way to continue this critical work with state and local governments without compromising the moral imperative that government provide for the needs of people who are often overlooked and ignored. We view these models as tools to meet urgent needs, not permanent solutions. In the mean time, we are here to help, with a commitment to transparency, measurable impact, and getting the most out of every dollar in service of the public good.
We recognize the urgent need to fight threats to the right to counsel, ensuring that every individual, regardless of their background or income, has access to quality legal representation. We are also committed to providing the tools and programs needed to end the cycles of incarceration that devastate justice-impacted individuals and their families and drain the fiscal resources of state and local governments. We advise local governments, not-for-profit community organizations, and developers in connection with Brownfield land remediation programs and providing affordable and workforce housing for lower income residents and to eradicate poverty and income and wealth inequality in our communities.
Together with our partners, we are working toward a fairer, more just society where every community member has the support they need to lead a fulfilling and secure life.
What we have done:
We began our work with veterans in 2005 as part of a Veterans Residential Therapeutic Program at an upstate New York prison. The program included a full range of high school and college level course curricula and a legal services clinic. In 2013, we held a conference in Saratoga Springs, New York, on the plight of incarcerated veterans.
Participants in prison educational program for incarcerated veterans
Jonathan Gradess
It was at this conference that the late Jonathan Gradess, former Executive Director of the New York State Defenders Association in Albany, New York, advanced the concept of the New York State Veterans Defense Program, which is now a fully state funded veterans service program in New York State. Veterans defense continues to be a key focus of ours.
In one particular case, our VetsBridge group was able facilitate compliance with a substantial court ordered restitution payment for damaged property, imposed on a twenty something justice-impacted veteran of two tours in Iraq, suffering from serious combat related PTSD. This enabled the NYSDA VDP team to negotiate for a reduced sentence very significantly less than the court had previously indicated would be imposed.
First Fairfield Associates, a local social enterprise firm, through its affiliate company Putnam Resources, and its partners, acquired property in downtown Saratoga Springs, New York, in 2013. From 2014 to 2024 we advised the company and coordinated a New York State Brownfield environmental remediation program and site plan approvals for them, and have recently received a formal Certificate of Completion from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and a formal site plan approval for them from the Saratoga Springs Planning Board for the property located at 53 Putnam, for the construction of a 32 unit workforce housing project at the urban core of the city, near work and transportation, meeting a critical community need in this unique, affluent upstate New York city. This combined climate and housing justice project will serve as a model for future brownfield-affordable housing projects in the state and throughout the country.
53 Putnam before & after
Through First Fairfield Associates, and its affiliated company Transformational Justice Services, our North Carolina team initiated the When People Work and Vetsbridge pilot programs conducted in Wilson, Edgecomb, and Pitt counties in North Carolina from January 2023 to May 2024. These services assisted veterans and justice-impacted individuals with employment training, housing, mental health services, and legal assistance. These programs helped reduced the county recidivism rate to just 4.5% from the statewide 46%.
Data on the effectiveness of the When People Work reentry program
WPW's North Carolina team
Our founder Frank Zarro helped create the Skidmore College Restorative Justice Project, which has since moved to the University of San Diego. At Skidmore RJ, he organized the In Our Name Civic Learning initiatives. Frank has served as a member of the National End Mass Incarceration Committee Policy task force at the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta Georgia. He has taught administrative law at Pace University Graduate School of Arts and Sciences in White Plains, New York and Political Science at Southern Connecticut State University in New Haven, Connecticut.
Frank has held positions with the New York State Unified Court System, where he was part of a team that implemented the state’s then newly enacted court reform measures and later worked at the New York State Defenders Association in Albany, New York where he served as Director of Development and Special Projects and helped to advance the Veterans Defense Program. He received a master’s degree in public administration from the Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service at New York University in June 1975 and a juris doctorate from Seton Hall University School of Law in June 1979.
From 2005 to 2011, Frank taught legal research and conducted a law library clinic for incarcerated individuals at New York State maximum and minimum-security prisons. During this six-year period, Frank assisted facility residents on about 200 motions, appeals and cases per month. During this time, Frank also initiated a prisoner Speakout series where individual prisoner poets recited their poetry for audiences of incarcerated people and members of the local community.
In the course of working on another case in a prison law library in 2009, with Pete Fiorello, a retired NYC Detective and former investigator for Manhattan District Attorneys Hogan and Morgenthau, we came across the cases of George Bell, Rohan Bolt, and Gary Johnson, three men who were wrongfully prosecuted and convicted of murdering two men, including a New York City police officer, in Queens, New York.
Over the years, Pete continued to investigate and ultimately was able to find quality pro bono lawyers to take the case. During the pendency of their post-conviction proceedings, we hosted a program as part of our Community Classroom series at Caffé Lena in Saratoga Springs, New York to promote public awareness of the grave injustices which were done, which included a presentation done by the Bell family. In 2021, George, Rohan, and Gary were exonerated and brought a successful wrongful conviction action against the state. Today, all three are free and productive citizens, reunited with their families, friends and communities, thanks hard work of Pete Fiorello and the group of pro bono lawyers, who saw the case to completion.
The Bell family with Pete Fiorello
"The greatest crime of all in a civilized society is an unjust conviction. It is truly a scandal that reflects unfavorably on all participants in the criminal justice system," - The Appellate Division, First Department, People v. Ramos, 1994.
It is important to us that incarcerated individuals are able have their voices heard. By listening to and relaying their stories through our writings and events, we hope to humanize some of the most silenced members of our society. We believe compassion and second chances go hand-in-hand with justice and rehabilitation. Punishment alone cannot cure the sources of society's ills; true solutions can only come from understanding, and true understanding is only possible through empathy. The dignity of justice-involved, incarcerated ,and formerly incarcerated individuals is not just our moral imperative, it is essential for societal progress.
Works in progress:
Criminal case disposition initiatives for Penobscot County, Maine.
We are working with No Penobscot County Jail Expansion in Penobscot County, Maine to establish a new alternative diversion program as more cost-effective, sustainable, and humane solution to the county jail's overpopulation crisis than the proposed construction of a new jail, which would cost upwards of $200 million. The program would provide individuals charged with class C felonies and below, who's involvement with the justice system stems from substance abuse, housing instability, mental illness, and/or unemployment, with services that address and remedy those problems directly, thus decreasing the amount of incarcerated people the county must house and the rate at which they reoffend.
Historic preservation and affordable housing in Troy, New York.
We are working with community developer and Society Impact associate Dereck Melochon of OPM, who is collaborating with the Community Preservation Corporation to repurpose the historic Trojan hotel at 43 3rd st. in Troy, New York into affordable, sustainable housing. Troy, as a growing and desirable city in the Capital Region, has seen its cost of living increase significantly in recent years. We believe that a community thriving does not mean that long-time residents have to be priced out or that it must lose its architectural heritage, which is why we are proud to combine historic preservation and affordability with this project.
Photos of the historic Trojan Hotel in Troy, New York.
Mixed income condominium project in Saratoga Springs, New York.
Through Putnam Resources LLC, a local community developer, we have completed the transformation of a Brownfield remediation site into the state's first mixed-income condominium in the urban core of Saratoga Springs, New York. As this vibrant city continues to grow in popularity across the Capital Region, housing costs have risen, making it increasingly difficult for many to remain in the community they call home. We believe that a city’s success should include everyone, which is why our continued work on this project is focused on enhancing sustainable, environmentally conscious homes that support long-term affordability and a healthier future for Saratoga Springs residents.
Site plans for 53 Putnam, Saratoga Springs, New York.
Post-release stipend bill in New York.
We are supporting the work of New York State Assemblyman Edward Gibbs of assembly district 68 to advocate for assembly bill A193. Poverty and unemployment are the root causes for a great deal of recidivism in New York State, and by addressing these issues directly, the proposed monthly stipend would decrease the rate at which newly released individuals may reoffend. Not only would this give justice-involved individuals a deserved second chance, it would save the state taxpayer money that it may otherwise have to spend housing them were they to reoffend. We are further proposing that the stipend is accompanied by meaningful reentry programs and tools to prevent recidivism that we could help to implement.
Post-release programs for Maine.
We are working with local and state officials to propose programs for individuals released from correctional facilities in Maine, such as stipends and reentry programs. Similar to the proposals in Penobscot County and New York, these programs aim to reduce state recidivism rates and save taxpayers money.
Our outreach
Civic learning and advocacy
In Our Name began as a book and has since developed into a series of conferences and "Community Classrooms" featuring some of the most prominent figures and advocates in the fields of social, economic, criminal justice.
The mission of In Our Name is to bring the general public into contact with members of the legal community and advocacy groups in order to increase overall awareness of legal policy, and to facilitate discussion toward the reform of the criminal justice system.
In Our Name is a civic learning and advocacy organization dedicated to bringing public attention to social, economic, procedural, and criminal justice matters. We also provide justice impacted individuals and their families with legal and financial assistance.
Frank Zarro speaking at an In Our Name community classroom at Caffe Lena
Our team
Gordon Boyd, a former journalist, policy analyst and consultant, retired in 2016 as owner/consultant for EnergyNext, Inc., Saratoga Springs, NY, a retail energy brokerage that assists municipalities and businesses to access better prices for electricity, natural gas, renewable power and community energy programs.
He also served for seven years as a religious volunteer at Mt. McGregor Correctional Facility near Saratoga Springs. He facilitated classes preparing men for parole hearings and release and was instrumental in developing arts and music programs for the prisoners at that facility.
Previously, he served on the staff of the Speaker of the New York State Assembly, developing infrastructure, energy and environmental policies and programs, including the New York City Water Finance Authority. He executive directed an Assembly-Senate Commission studying solid waste management, before starting his business in the late 1980s. Boyd wrote for the Daily Gazette of Schenectady and the Daily Press of Utica in the 1960s and 1970s. He graduated from Hamilton College.
Boyd is a former chairman of the Environment Committee of the New York Chamber of Commerce, has served as Regulatory Chair of the Northeastern U.S. chapter of The Energy Professionals Association (TEPA) and was on the board of the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce, Empire State College and the Saratoga Springs City Center Authority. He is a member of the New York State Democratic Committee.
Advisor
Janet Conner-Knox is an Emmy Award-winning producer, director, and journalist with over 30 years of experience across television, radio, and print media. A veteran storyteller and newsroom leader, she has shaped coverage for major outlets including NBC, WHYY FM, several nationally syndicated programs, and other major media organizations.
In television, Janet has served as an assignment manager, leading daily coverage and
newsroom operations across multiple stations. In print, she was a key contributor to editorial teams that won more North Carolina Press Association awards than any other outlet—multiple years in a row. Her leadership and commitment to excellence consistently inspired teams to outperform their competition.
Her investigative instincts and powerful writing have held elected officials accountable, with several of her stories gaining international attention. Janet is also a multi-award-winning writer, known for amplifying voices too often left unheard. She continues to write both fiction and nonfiction scripts and has ghostwritten a nationally recognized story. Janet has directed and produced projects across genres including documentary, comedy, and drama—always bringing a journalist’s eye for truth and a creative’s heart for human connection.
Originally from Philadelphia, she is now based in North Carolina and working globally through her role as Joint Chief of International Business Development at NKM Studios, a transatlantic film production company. Whether in the newsroom or on set, Janet Conner-Knox remains dedicated to telling stories that matter—stories that are compelling, unexpected, and resonate deeply with audiences regardless of age, race, education, or geography.
Production Services
Seán Martín Dalpiaz is a seasoned public service leader, nonprofit real estate developer, and advocate for reform of the criminal legal system, grounded in a strong commitment to restorative justice and community empowerment.
Seán Dalpiaz has served as Program Director at the Osborne Association’s Fulton Community Reentry Center in the Bronx. There, he led the transformation of a former New York State prison into a 140-bed transitional housing facility tailored to older adults returning from long-term incarceration. Under his leadership, the Center integrated wraparound reentry services that addressed housing, employment readiness, health care, and personal development - building a national model for compassionate reintegration.
Seán Dalpiaz also served as Vice President of Real Estate and Facility Administration at Covenant House New York, where he oversaw capital developments and housing initiatives for youth experiencing homelessness. His career in social services began at SCO Family of Services, where he spent eight years in the foster care system, rising from maintenance staff to Program Director. He has served on the Strategic Adolescent Advisory Board for Rikers Island, providing policy input to improve outcomes for incarcerated youth.
As a formerly incarcerated person himself, Seán Dalpiaz brings a lived understanding to his work, which informs his advocacy and leadership. He holds an Associate degree in Social Sciences, a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology, and a Master’s in Public Administration. A former PEN America Writing for Justice Fellow, he is also a published writer whose work uplifts the voices of those impacted by incarceration. His career spans direct service, real estate development, and the arts - anchored by a steadfast belief in equity, human dignity, and second chances.
Development and Special Projects
Herman Dunnom Jr. brings over 15 years of multifaceted experience in marketing, communications, and community event production to his work at Society Impact. Herman's goal is to give a voice to those who are too often silenced and ignored. With a passion for justice, he fosters empathetic dialogues with the justice-impacted, relaying their experiences to the public. His work emphasizes our organization's core belief in the humanity of incarcerated individuals and the important lessons to be learned from their stories.
In addition to his role at Society Impact, Herman is the Founder, Senior Consultant, and Executive Leadership Coach of Beautiful Men & Women, Inc, a New York City-based firm dedicated to personal, professional, and entrepreneurial development..
Community Engagement
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Sherrod Z. Knox is a globetrotting, award-winning filmmaker, cinematographer, and writer with more than a decade of experience capturing stories that move people and spark change. His work spans the U.S., Europe, and Asia, and his storytelling blends cinematic craft with a deep commitment to social impact.
His credits include a Prime Video feature comedy, international documentaries for BBC and SKY, and nationally broadcast PSAs created in partnership with the CDC and NC Department of Health. His films have screened at festivals including the Pinewood Studios International Film Festival and the Philadelphia International Film Festival, earning accolades for both direction and cinematography.
Sherrod is currently directing a feature documentary on addiction and harm reduction, continuing his mission to spotlight real lives and urgent issues with empathy and depth. As a writer, he has penned speeches for congressional candidates, scripts for public health campaigns, and narrative content that connects across platforms and audiences.
Versatility is a hallmark of Sherrod’s career. He cut his teeth shooting sports, breaking news, and live events before transitioning into narrative films, commercials, music videos, and long-form documentaries. Whether he’s shooting the centerpiece photograph for a front-page political story, directing compelling documentaries, or writing and filming comedic takes on college life, he brings precision, heart, and vision to every genre.
A graduate of North Carolina A&T State University—accepted at age 15—Sherrod brings a rare blend of political insight, visual storytelling, and cultural fluency to every project. He is based between North Carolina and Philadelphia and is available for projects worldwide.
Production Services
Laura Manning is responsible for the daily operations and financial administration of the company, overseeing project management and communications. As a member of the team, she coordinates the development of projects and refines the organization’s activities among internal staff and clients.
Laura’s experience encompasses a variety of industries, including real estate, accounting, and investments. She holds a bachelor’s degree in business computer science from Barrington College.
Finance & Administration
Derick Melancon is a real estate developer and entrepreneur. With over 25 years of experience in construction and 8 years in mortgage lending and finance, he uses his expertise to help Society Impact secure site plan approvals to repurpose old and run down properties as affordable housing projects.
Strongly committed to community development, Derick is also the founder of the contracting company OPM LLC., which regularly volunteers its construction services to schools and non-profits, and raises $200,000 annually for the Make-A-Wish foundation.
Affordable Housing Development
Benjamin Miller is a researcher, editor, designer, web developer, and video editor who lives in New York City. Originally from North Carolina, he holds a Bachelor's degree in New Media from University of North Carolina at Asheville.
Researcher, Editor, Social Media & Technical Support
End Conscription Campaign poster, South Africa, 1987