To support people involved in the criminal legal system in changing from the inside out, and to educate the public, in order to promote healing, restore relationships and achieve success in the community.
Inside Out Reentry Community is based in Iowa City and serves people returning to Johnson County after incarceration. Returning to and becoming an active member of society after being in prison is tough, and we strive to give individuals the support they need to reach their goals.
Approximately 95% of currently incarcerated individuals in Iowa will be reentering society.
What we offer:
A drop-in Resource Center: a safe place to seek support. The drop-in center also provides the following resources that are available when we are open and by appointment:
Case Management and Reentry Planning — Including goal setting, resources and referrals for health care, mental health care, substance use recovery, identification, and assistance with forms and applications.
Employment Readiness — Assistance with job applications, resumes, and interviewing skills.
Housing — Assistance with housing searches and applications, accessing credit reports, referrals to housing assistance programs.
Resources — Bus passes, a backpack with hygiene products upon release, and access to Inside Out’s resource closet with donated clothing and household items.
Life Skills — personal finances, mindfulness, communication skills, healthy relationships, etc.
Meetings: Our meetings are open to our members, and those directly impacted by the criminal legal system. If you would like to get involved with Inside Out please contact us!
Community Meetings: Every Thursday from 6:30 to 8 pm, we hold weekly group mentoring community meetings. Every meeting features a check-in where members share successes and challenges with one another, and give and receive support. Meetings include discussions related to reentry, workshops on life skills, small group activities, and presentations from community speakers.
Coffee and Connections: Every Tuesday from 5:30 – 6:30 pm we host a peer -led support group for those in all stages of recovery who have also been involved in the criminal legal system. Inspired by Johann Hari’s famous Ted Talk, the group is based off the belief that the opposite of addiction is not sobriety, it is connection. The group meets weekly to share successes, discuss challenges, and show peer support for others in the group.
Creative Collective: On the first and third Wednesday of each month from 5:30 – 7:00 pm, we host a writing and creative arts group. The group helps those interested in writing expand their skills, experiment with different styles, and engage in the healing properties of writing.
Mentoring pairs a returning citizen with a community volunteer for social, emotional, and practical support. Mentors form a meaningful friendship and help a returning citizen overcome barriers, increase their confidence, and reach their goals.
Inside Out Reentry Community aims to reduce the social stigma returning citizens often feel.
Contact
[email protected] (319) 338-7996 804 S Capitol St, Iowa City, IA 52240
Last night’s reception for Art from the Inside Out was beyond incredible. Thanks to everyone who came out to view the Art, hear from artists and build community for those impacted by the justice system.
The show is on display through February 14th so be sure to check it out. And many more pictures to come!
Presenting artwork by Sketch! Join us for our fourth annual Art From the Inside Out art show! This show features the incredible artwork of current and formerly incarcerated artists. Reception is February 6th at 6 pm at @p_s_won (538 S Gilbert St) and art will be on display through the 14th. You do not want to miss this show!
Presenting artwork by Ivan Flores! Our fourth annual Art From the Inside Out art show is coming up soon! This show features the incredible artwork of current and formerly incarcerated artists. Reception is February 6th at 6 pm at @p_s_won (538 S Gilbert St) and art will be on display from 5th through the 14th. You do not want to miss this show!
Art From the Inside Out is being installed! Join us Feb 3-14 at @p_s_won to check out this show featuring artwork from current and formerly incarcerated individuals. Reception on Friday the 6th at 6 pm
And thanks to everyone who helped today!
#incarceratedartists #reentry #reentrymatters #artshow
Want to improve your financial literacy? We are excited to offer Money Moves with Veridian Credit Union next month. Call 319-338-7996 to register! #reentry #reentrymatters #returningcitizens #formerlyincarcerated
Today from 5-7pm at The Vue Rooftop! Join us and support our mission to help those returning to the community after incarceration. The Vue will donate 10% of sales from 5-7pm.
#reentrymatters #dineoutforacause
Our fourth annual Art From the Inside Out art show is coming up soon! Check out this beautiful artwork by an anonymous artist. This show features the incredible artwork of current and formerly incarcerated artists. Reception is February 6th at 6 pm at @p_s_won (538 S Gilbert St) and art will be on display from 3rd through the 14th. You do not want to miss this show!
Everyday Iowa – Inside Out Reentry Community’s Art from the Inside Out Link to video interview on Everyday Iowa with Executive Director Michelle Heinz. _______________________________ Little Village – ‘Art is my escape’: Paintings, drawings, a Read more
January 2026 Newsletter 4th Annual Art from the Inside Out Art Show! Our fourth annual Art from the Inside Out art show is coming up soon! This free show features the incredible artwork of current and formerly incarcerated artists. The reception is February 6th at 6 pm at Read more
One year of incredible work and ten years of gratitude! As 2025 comes to a close, we proudly celebrate 10 years of growth, resilience, and service to our community. At Inside Out Reentry Community, our Read more
