Pennsylvania Prison Society

The mission of the Pennsylvania Prison Society is to advocate for humane prisons and a rational approach to criminal justice.

Founded in 1787, by signers of the Declaration of Independence, the Pennsylvania Prison Society is the oldest organization in the country dedicated to ensuring humane prisons and advocating for a rational approach to criminal justice.

Today the Society advocates for systemic policy change, responds to the concerns of inmates and their families, offers a subsidized bus service for Philadelphia families visiting loved ones incarcerated in all regions of Pennsylvania, and assists individuals returning home from incarceration. 

By statute, the Society is Pennsylvania’s only independent correctional oversight organization. The Society supports volunteers throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania who monitor conditions and respond to inmate requests for help.