Renee Menart

Renée Menart is a passionate advocate for youth impacted by the legal system. Her debut children's book, "Demetri Makes a Memory Quilt", tells a heartwarming story inspired by her work in early childhood literacy and community-based alternatives to incarceration. The story was developed with support from formerly incarcerated women and mothers who were compensated for contributions.

Renée conducts policy research at the Center on Juvenile and Criminal Justice (CJCJ), a non-profit organization in San Francisco, California. She works closely with community partners to reduce incarceration as a solution to social problems. Previously, she facilitated lessons at an under-resourced preschool in Chicago, Illinois as a team leader in a national reading and literacy program.

Renée grew up the youngest of six in a blended family that embraced creativity and compassion. When she is not writing stories, you can find her crafting, exploring nature, and working to keep families together!