Houston belongs to everyone
We build civic power across Houston by opening access to the ballot, preparing new public leaders, and making room for stories too often left unheard.
The work
From the county jail to college campuses and neighborhood events, we create clear ways for Houstonians to participate, lead, and be heard.
Texas' first jail-based voting initiative helps eligible incarcerated voters participate. In 2021, the work helped establish a polling place inside the Harris County Jail.
See the initiativeA growing podcast and storytelling project centered on the people, families, and communities shaped by incarceration in Harris County.
Hear the storiesA selective, nonpartisan fellowship where college students and community leaders learn how Houston works, meet public servants, and practice civic leadership in the field.
Explore the instituteA nonpartisan clearinghouse that connects community events with trained volunteer deputy voter registrars across Greater Houston.
Register HoustonMeet the team
Our team brings strategy, organizing, operations, creativity, and deep Houston relationships to every part of the work.
Sets the vision, builds partnerships, and leads Houston Justice’s civic strategy.
Coordinates daily operations, logistics, and the systems that keep the work moving.
Connects residents with opportunities to participate, volunteer, and lead.
Leads visual direction, creative production, and the stories that bring the mission to life.
Supports voter contact, community events, and neighborhood-based outreach.
Directs field strategy, staffing, and the organizing plans that turn goals into action.
Builds relationships and helps residents take part in civic life across Houston.
Strengthens volunteer engagement and supports community-centered outreach.
Project Orange
Eligible voters detained pretrial retain the right to vote. Project Orange brings public officials, advocates, and trained volunteers together to turn that right into real access inside the Harris County Jail.
Volunteer with usUpcoming · All times Central
Conversations, community gatherings, and practical ways to connect across Houston. Find your next event and reserve your place.
Houston Chronicle opinion editor Evan Mintz joins Durrell for a conversation about the endorsement process. Live on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.
Watch liveCreate your shirt at BakerRipley East End, 4450 Harrisburg Blvd., Suite 102.
Details + RSVPThree days for people starting a nonprofit or strengthening one they lead: virtual kickoff Thursday, working lab and dinner Friday, in-person intensive Saturday.
Explore the campA nonprofit, advocacy, and philanthropy dinner connecting fellows with people doing the work. Tacos A Go Go on Main Street.
Details + RSVPAn intimate conversation at Kulture, inside the George R. Brown Convention Center. A $100 seat supports the Houston Civic Institute.
Reserve your seatClassic episodes and a brief Q&A with Charnele Brown, who played Kimberly Reese. Free admission; RSVP required. Houston location shared with confirmed guests.
Free RSVPMeet the people behind public service with the Houston Civic Institute. Precinct One Admin & Community Center, 2787 El Camino St.
Details + RSVP8–9 AM · Kulture · GRB Convention Center
Reserve seat8–9:30 AM · Kulture · GRB Convention Center
Reserve seatTake part
Give your time, bring civic access to your community, or grow into public leadership.
Help with Project Orange, voter registration, events, and community outreach.
Raise your handConnect your school, nonprofit, business, or neighborhood event with trained registrars.
Visit Register HoustonLearn how Houston works and build the practical skills to serve your community.
Join the instituteNews + stories
Updates from the field, reflections from our team, and stories about the people shaping a more participatory Houston.
Why Houston Justice went to court to protect meaningful ballot access after severe weather eliminated two early-voting days.
Read the storyA first-person reflection on registering eligible voters inside the jail and recognizing political power in overlooked places.
Read the storyA look back at a decade of organizing, leadership development, and expanding civic participation across Houston.
Read the storyLet’s work together
Volunteer, bring voter registration to an event, partner with us, or simply ask a question. We’ll make sure your message reaches the right person.
Your gift supports voting access, civic leadership, and community stories across our city.
Donate to Houston Justice