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
Our Spring Concert yard signs are here thanks to @alphagraphicsnl Want to advertise our upcoming Spring Concert in your yard? Stop by our center and grab a sign!
Mother’s Day can be a difficult day for many in our community. Through our work with incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals and their families, we recognize how separation from mothers, partners, and loved ones can make this day especially hard.
We’re thinking of everyone feeling that distance today. If today feels heavy, we hope you can hold onto the memories and moments you’ve shared.
We are beyond excited to once again offer Parent Cafes! These evenings are a great way to connect with other parents and strengthen our families. Cafes include a free meal, childcare, chance to win a prize and more! Sign up by calling us at 319-338-7996
Hey members!! 🎲
Join us for a fun night of board games on April 29 from 5:30–7:30 p.m. at the Resource Center (804 S. Capitol St., Iowa City).
Come hang out, play some games, and connect with others! Need a ride? Call 319-338-7996.
As the weather warms up, it’s a good time to get ready for the season ahead. Our clothing closet has options available for our members, including clothes, shoes, and socks.
We’re also currently accepting donations of men’s summer clothing. If you’re able to give, we appreciate the support!
It’s national volunteer appreciation week! Tracy made delicious treats as a thank you. We are beyond grateful for the wonderful work our volunteers contribute year round. 💗
Today at @wildwoodiowacity ! Join us for some great BBQ and support our mission to help those returning to the community after incarceration. Wildwood will donate 10% of sales for the day to Inside Out! #reentry #reentrymatters
May 2026 Newsletter Our Spring Concert is Almost Here! Join us on Sunday May 31st from 3-5 pm for our free upcoming Spring Concert Fundraiser featuring the masterful country blues duo – The Cedar County Cobras. It’s sure to be a Read more
March 2026 Newsletter Our 4th year of incredible art, inspiration and human connections! Creativity hung on the walls and inspiration was abundant at our Art from the Inside Out reception on February 6th! Artists, family members representing their Read more
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
