Everglades Correctional Institution

1599 SW 187th Ave.

Miami, FL  33194

Mission

To inform residents of ongoing issues that affect them. To investigate and report issues relevant to both our inside and outside communities. To produce content internally for the betterment of our environment. To partner with outside organizations to expand our reach.

Vision

To be the voice of our community, promoting unity through a shared purpose, by providing factual information that enables residents to make the most informed decisions possible.

History

THEEndeavor, Everglades Correctional Institution’s premier newspaper, published its inaugural issue in July 2014 under the name, “The Everglades Eclectic.” A month later, in August 2014, the publication was renamed to “The Everglades Endeavor.” Then, over five years later in December 2019, “Everglades” was dropped from the name it became what it is currently – “THEEndeavor.” 

Everglades Correctional Institution is Florida’s first incentivized prison, houses over 1,800 residents, and boasts numerous residential and non-residential programs. Highlighting the proactive and far-reaching efforts of residents and staff is paramount to THEEndeavor’ mission. 

Where We Are Now

THEEndeavor publishes at least 10 issues annually and distributes a select number of copies to each residential dormitory, as well as to staff members and various departments. To successfully accomplish this task requires a collaborative effort and cooperation amongst various staff members. THEEndeavor is self-funded, so it is by the gracious donations of community members we are able to print each issue. Currently, THEEndeavor places between 3-4 copies in each dormitory – at best, a 1:16 ratio. We strive to reach more residents.

The E-Team consists of 11 members, including: a Managing Editor, a Senior Editor, an Art Director, a Content Editor, Writers, and Contributing Writers. Within these positions lie the responsibility of writing, reporting, layout and design, typing, and distribution. Members wear multiple hats throughout the production process. 

To complement the resident staff, THEEndeavor has recently implemented an Advisory Board. This four-person team consists of members of our community who specialize in journalism, entrepreneurship, and education. One member of the Advisory Board is also the publication’s Consulting Editor, bringing over 30 years of journalism experience to the team. The position of Editor-in-Chief is held by Everglades’ Assistant Warden of Programs and THEEndeavor is supported and sponsored by four staff members.

Staff writers take pride in their work, adhering to standards set forth by the Associated Press, The Wall Street Journal, and other well-respected sources. Prison Journalism Project, an independent, nonprofit national initiative run by journalists and educators with experience teaching journalism “inside the walls,” has featured the work of several Endeavor writers and currently features a recurring food-themed article by the team’s Senior Editor. 

In May, THEEndeavor was recognized by the Society for Professional Journalism and Prison Journalism Project as the winner of a 2024 Stillwater Award for “Prison Publication of the Year.” From over 165 entries from across the United States, our publication ranked third.

The Next 10 Years

Currently, THEEndeavor can be found on one of our Advisory Board member’s website: www.miamisoundspace.com/the-endeavor. This exposure allows family, friends, and supporters to see a readable color version of each issue. 

Residents of the institution are privy to a black-and-white version of our publication. It is our hope to post future issues on the residential tablet platform for every resident to enjoy – not just those here at Everglades but incarcerated men and women statewide. As our institution is the first incentivized prison in Florida, we would like to highlight all the programs, classes, and opportunities available. It is our hope for society to see the rehabilitative efforts being made by us and for our communities.

Each issue is produced using two desktop computers – one for layout/design and one for editing. Four administrative members of the team rotate usage, getting various jobs done. Writers are relegated to drafting stories with pen and paper. It is our vision to have computer terminals dedicated for the writers to properly craft their articles. As well, when it comes to printing, having a dedicated printer to produce more issues will only enhance our exposure amongst the residents of our community.

Questions or Comments

THEEndeavor is always looking for ways to improve our product. We are always open to suggestions. If you would like to know more, please contact:  Mr. Henry Unger, Consulting Editor, at henryunger12@gmail.com.  

Warmest regards,

The E-Team