For generations, helping people after prison often meant providing food, clothing, or money.
Those things matter, but many reformers realized they weren't enough.
People also need help navigating the emotional side of rebuilding a life after incarceration.
The Pennsylvania Prison Society was one of the first organizations to adapt this philosophy.
The Prison Society’s efforts were initially marked by the creation of the Department of Released Prisoners in 1925 and the hiring of Albert G. Fraser, who was well-versed in case work methods.
The movement gained momentum into the 1930s. In 1934, William H. Kinney became the first trained social worker employed in a Pennsylvania prison: a milestone that reflected years of advocacy for a more professional, person-centered approach.
Thanks to the big strides made in the past, we now see more social workers and support for currently and formerly incarcerated people. Today, we work to provide programming, access to medical care, and spaces to grow.
The Prison Society currently hosts peer support groups for incarcerated people and one-on-one assistance via our Helpline. We also run the Building Connections program, which supports people in prison as they prepare for reentry by strengthening the networks that are essential for a successful transition home.
We still strive to continue to push for better resources for all currently and formerly incarcerated people, so that they can feel protected and represented.