This stark injustice is the legacy of the War on Drugs. This policy failure has disproportionately impacted marginalized communities, separated families, and left thousands of lives in limbo.     This was enacted through harsh, mandatory minimum criminal sentences, overcriminalization, and relentless surveillance of Black and Brown communities. One thing is clear: The mission of the War on Drugs was meant to marginalize, fearmonger, devastate communities, and provide no apparent signs of reform in sight. Today, thousands of Americans are locked behind bars or plagued by convictions for marijuana-related offenses, even in states where cannabis is now legal. We at RISE believe that cannabis legalization demands justice reform.  

One organization that is leading the change in cannabis reform is the Last Prisoner Project (LPP). LPP’s mission is as urgent as it is ambitious: to free every individual still incarcerated for cannabis-related offenses and to fight for comprehensive reform of drug policies. 

The Last Prisoner Project was founded on a simple but powerful belief: no one should remain in prison for something that is now legal. Their work tackles both the human and systemic consequences of cannabis prohibition, focusing on two key objectives: 

1. Fighting for Release  LPP works tirelessly to secure pardon, parole, and sentence reductions for individuals imprisoned for cannabis offenses. They also provide post-release support to help people reintegrate into society after incarceration.  

2. Advocating for Policy Reform  LPP pushes for front-end solutions to prevent future injustices, championing reforms to drug laws and advocating for equitable opportunities in the cannabis industry. 

Their efforts don’t just address the past—they’re building a more equitable future where everyone benefits from cannabis legalization, not just the privileged few. 

RISE Dispensary has partnered with the Last Prisoner Project for this year’s Round Up Campaign to amplify its impact and invite customers to join the fight for justice.

How It Works 

When you shop at RISE Dispensary, round up your purchase to the nearest dollar. Every cent donated will go directly to the Last Prisoner Project to fund their critical work. 

RISE will match every dollar donated up to $100,000 quarterly to double the impact. With your support, this partnership will help fund legal assistance, reentry programs, and advocacy initiatives.

While cannabis legalization sweeps the nation, it’s important to remember the lives still trapped by outdated and unjust policies. Over 40,000 individuals remain incarcerated for cannabis-related offenses in the United States, many serving severe sentences for minor, nonviolent crimes.

Disproportionate Impact 

Communities of color have borne the brunt of these policies. Black Americans are nearly four times more likely to be arrested for cannabis possession than white Americans despite similar usage rates. 

These arrests and convictions have lasting consequences, from limiting job opportunities to tearing families apart. The War on Drugs wasn’t just ineffective—it was deeply harmful, and its effects linger to this day. 

Behind the statistics are real people whose lives have been upended by cannabis prohibition. Take Corvain Cooper, who was sentenced to life without parole for a nonviolent cannabis offense. Thanks to the Last Prisoner Project and other advocates, Corvain received a pardon in 2021. Today, he is a free man, using his platform to fight for others who remain incarcerated. 

Stories like Corvain’s remind us of what’s at stake: freedom, opportunity, and justice for thousands of individuals and their families.

The RISE and Last Prisoner Project partnership makes it easy for you to take action. Here’s how you can get involved: 

1. Round Up at Checkout 

Every time you shop at RISE, round up your total to the nearest dollar. RISE will then match your donation up to $100,000.    2. Spread the Word 

Share this initiative with your friends, family, and followers.  

3. Learn More 

Visit the Last Prisoner Project to explore their work, read success stories, and find additional ways to contribute. 

4. Advocate for Reform 

Contact your representatives and support legislation prioritizing equity, justice, and systemic reform. Your voice matters. 

Cannabis legalization should mean more than just economic opportunity—it should mean justice, equity, and freedom for those still suffering from the effects of prohibition. By supporting the Last Prisoner Project through the Round Up Campaign, you’re not just helping individuals—you’re contributing to a movement to reimagine drug policy and repair the harm caused by decades of unjust laws. 

Together, we can make a difference and create a future where we can all consume cannabis without fear of conviction. So let’s round-up, right our wrongs & RISE UP to build a better future.