Charles Perry

Director of Community Organizing
Westside Health Authority

Charles Perry is an activist and organizer who serves as the Director of Community Organizing for the Westside Health Authority, where he has provided support for the community since 2011. Charles works with men and women to help move them away from behaviors that could end with incarceration and even death. Having spent nearly 18 years in federal prison, he brings lived experience to his organizing and community work. In October, 2017, his efforts on behalf of the community have been recognized by the Department of Justice, with an Award for Public Service. Recently, he has been engaged in activism around a community benefits agreement for the Obama Presidential Library, in Jackson Park. Charles is member of the Trinity United Church of Christ and has been an active member of their Prison Ministry for over 12 years.