Sandra van den Heuvel

Sandra is a social justice advocate committed to uplifting innovative, sustainable solutions that build equity and reduce reliance on incarceration. She works to build decision-making power and wealth for those most impacted by mass incarceration, using strategic grants and participatory approaches to change how governments invest in public safety and justice.

Previously, Sandra was a senior program associate at the Vera Institute of Justice, where her research and advocacy focused on money injustice. She studied the power of public budgets, federal funding, and examined how fines, fees, and bail contribute to carceral systems and racial disparities. Prior to the Vera Institute, she served as a clinical supervisor within Massachusetts state prisons. Her experience also includes working in the social services department of the New York City Department of Correction, transitional housing, parole advocacy, and forensic social work.

Sandra is a New York-based licensed social worker committed to person-centered and partnership-driven work.