We believe that love, human connection, and being part of a team help heal deep wounds and inspire lasting transformation.
OUR MISSION
At Only Miracles, a (501c3) non profit, our mission is grounded in the belief that everyone deserves a second chance. We are committed to transforming lives by helping former gang members, individuals who are currently or were previously incarcerated or those who have lived a life of crime, transition into society and build purposeful, meaningful lives.
ABOUT US
Through our initiatives, we aim to create a ripple effect of hope and transformation. We believe that as we broaden our reach, and support is provided to those released from more and more prisons, we are creating safer communities.
We believe that through compassion, community, and mentorship, we can unlock the potential for a new beginning. We offer a comprehensive support system that includes weekly online group sessions where participants share their experience, strength and hope with one another. This allows them to gain insight, become inspired, and find solace through a supportive network. Additionally, we host quarterly events bringing our Only Miracles family together for a meal, a round circle meeting and human connection, which fosters a sense of belonging and encouragement.
Elisabeth Weinstock founded the organization after beginning her journey in 1998, working with active gang members while volunteering at A Place Called Home in South Central Los Angeles. She held weekly AA and “anti gang meetings” for a group of young gang members who worked at the facility. Steadfastly, Weinstock has worked for over 25 years, tirelessly trying to make a difference and offer guidance and support to those in need. She has built a community which she refers to as “a family” that meets weekly, allowing members to share feelings and insight with one another because she believes that “love heals all.”
Only Miracles also runs a 16-week cohort led by Elisabeth in Lancaster State Prison, offering a safe space for the men and women to share about their pasts, talk about the present, gain inspiration and discuss the future. Through this program, they have the opportunity to embrace healing, grow emotionally, and create a new path forward. Story matters, and transformation is possible.
The Only Miracles Podcast extends our reach beyond local communities, sharing powerful stories of resilience and redemption with a global audience. By amplifying these voices, we strive to inspire others and advocate for the transformative power of second chances.
MEET THE TEAM
Elisabeth “Miss Elisabeth” Weinstock, Founder and Program Director
Elisabeth Weinstock is committed to transforming lives and reinforcing positive change. With over 30 years of sobriety, she embodies the power of personal growth and redemption. As an upstanding and accomplished businesswoman, Elisabeth brings her remarkable journey to the forefront, channeling her passion into rehabilitating currently and formerly incarcerated individuals as they navigate the path toward reintegration into society.
Born and raised in Los Angeles, her entrepreneurial spirit is palpable through her ownership of a thriving clothing brand and lifestyle store, where she has cultivated a reputation for excellence, innovation, and integrity. Elisabeth's unwavering dedication to empowering those impacted by unruling upbringings, justice impacted and gang affiliations sets her apart. Recognizing the immense need and potential for rehabilitation within prison walls, Elisabeth runs a weekly Only Miracles group at men’s maximum security prison. The meetings are a spin-off of the twelve-step program that digs deeper into the lives and stories of each person within each group, encouraging conversation as a form of pressure release, and emotional growth. These weekly sessions, tailored to the unique needs of recovering criminals and gang members, providing a safe haven for individuals seeking redemption, healing, and a new path forward.
Elisabeth's leadership extends beyond the walls of prisons. She facilitates weekly virtual Only Miracles meetings for The Francisco Homes, a group of mens transitional homes. This is a testament to her commitment to supporting transitioning individuals as they journey toward becoming valued members of society. She also hosts dinners and meetings for the Only Miracle family members, providing an environment where healing can flourish and new beginnings start!
During his incarceration, Johnny often referred to himself as "butter knife," a humble moniker he adopted because he claimed he was "not that sharp." However, this self-deprecating nickname belied the incredible changes he would undergo behind bars. Johnny's turning point came when he enrolled in the CROP Organization's Alcohol and Drug Counseling Programs. Not only did he graduate from these programs, but he also dedicated himself to helping others, playing a crucial role in transforming the prison culture.
Johnny's inspiring story caught the attention of many and was featured in the book "Men Built for Others." This recognition underscored his belief in the inherent value of every person and their potential for change.
Upon his release, Johnny channeled his experiences and newfound wisdom into his role as a Ready 4 Life Coach for CROP. In this capacity, he helps individuals achieve sobriety and guides formerly incarcerated people through successful reentry into society. His commitment to service doesn't stop there; Johnny also serves as the Program Director for the nonprofit "Getting Out by Going In" (GOGI). In this role, he dedicates his time to writing letters to incarcerated men and women seeking restoration and frequently visits prisons to inspire and motivate those serving sentences.
Johnny's dedication is a family affair. Alongside his wife Cynthia, he has written hundreds, if not thousands, of letters to those in need of support and encouragement. Together, they embody the values of character, service, and love in all they do.
Johnny's story is a testament to the power of redemption and the impact one individual can have on the lives of many. His journey from gang member to mentor and leader is a beacon of hope and a reminder of the potential for change within us all.
Jerica is an integral part of the Only Miracles community, where she’s learned three essential lessons: that change is possible, that self-development and practical tools can transform negative thinking and habits, and that being part of a supportive and open community is a powerful influence on daily life.
Jerica grew up in an impoverished neighborhood without the stability of family support, facing many challenges alone. However, through the Only Miracles community, she discovered a true sense of belonging and connection. This community became her family, offering her the encouragement and everyday support she had been missing. Surrounded by people who shared her commitment to growth and healing, Jerica found the strength to transform her life and now helps others experience the same sense of family and support that empowered her.
Jerica plays a key role in the Only Miracles organization by providing support, creating a safe and welcoming space for individuals, and instilling hope. She is instrumental in organizing our OM in-person meetings and dinners while continually building family connections for those who lacked them during their upbringing. She offers a sense of home to those who have felt isolated. Her efforts focus on helping people reintegrate into society and demonstrating the value of community service. Jerica's mission is to guide individuals toward personal growth, better decision-making, and a path of healing over harm.