Healing Beyond Exoneration
The Wrongful Conviction Trauma Center (WCTC) was founded to address the often-overlooked trauma experienced by individuals and families affected by wrongful conviction. While exoneration restores legal freedom, it does not undo the psychological, emotional, and social harm caused by years of unjust imprisonment.
WCTC exists to bridge that gap—offering trauma-informed care, advocacy, and long-term support so exonerees can truly heal and rebuild their lives.
Our Mission
To provide compassionate, trauma-informed support to individuals impacted by wrongful conviction and to advocate for justice, healing, and systemic change.
Our Vision
A world where exonerees are not defined by their wrongful conviction, but empowered to live full, stable, and dignified lives with access to the care and resources they deserve.
Why WCTC Matters
Our Values
Compassion
We meet every individual with empathy and respect
Healing
Trauma recovery is central to lasting freedom
Justice
We believe accountability must extend beyond release
Dignity
Every person deserves stability, voice, and hope
Founder Story
Marilyn’s Journey from Injustice to Impact
Marilyn’s life was forever changed by a wrongful conviction that unjustly stole years of her freedom. Following her exoneration, she faced the difficult reality that support for healing and reintegration was limited or nonexistent.
Determined to create change, Marilyn founded WCTC to ensure that no exoneree is left to navigate trauma, healing, and rebuilding alone. Her lived experience shapes every aspect of WCTC’s mission and approach.
