ABOUT US

Who We Are

The confluence of colonial revolutionary commitment to liberty and Quaker loathing of violence led to the creation in 1787 of the Philadelphia Society for Alleviating the Miseries of Public Prisons, now called the Pennsylvania Prison Society. For 220 years the Prison Society has advocated on behalf of people in prison and their families. The organization promotes humane and restorative corrections by serving thousands of prisoners, ex-prisoners and their family members each year through direct services and programs, prison visitation, and public education.

The Prison Society provides parenting skills education classes, restorative justice resources, informational services for women, and support to elder prisoners in state and county correctional facilities. Community programming includes support groups for children with incarcerated parents and re-entry programs for ex-offenders. Lectures, forums for public deliberation, and written publications help educate and inform the public about criminal justice issues. Through video conferencing and affordable transportation to prisons, the Prison Society helps families stay connected during periods of incarceration.

We do not excuse the crimes committed by the people we serve, but rather strive for a society where all people are held accountable with appropriate and restorative punishment. We believe the humanity in all our citizens must be recognized.

The Society, a nonprofit that is not affiliated with any religion or political institution, is governed by a board of directors and headed by an executive director. We have numerous chapters throughout the state. If you would like to get involved in promoting our mission of justice and compassion, please send us an email, or give us a call at 215-564-6005. No matter where you are in the state, we have something for you to do! If you'd like to simply become a member and receive our publications and other mailings, click here.

Justice and Compassion Don't Have to Be Exclusive.