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 incarcerated loved ones, and guests mingled through the rooms at PS1. Each year the show draws a larger crowd to see the works of those who, despite life challenging circumstances, create. Thank you to those who visited the show and to the talented artists who shared their art. A big thank you to the artists who shared their artwork live at the event through a poetry reading and performance of an original song. Events like this bring us together in support for those impacted by incarceration and provide a pathway forward through hope and connection.

“It was a wonderful night of beautiful and thought provoking art, great conversation and tasty snacks. A meaningful and fun time.” -Jeff Lees, a supporter of Inside Out.

RentWise: Tenant education to aid in reentry

In January Inside Out partnered with the Johnson County Affordable Housing Coalition to provide Rentwise tenant education to our members. These sessions included information on: managing your money, communicating with landlords and neighbors, finding a place to call home, and getting through the rental process. Finding and maintaining safe, suitable housing is always a huge challenge during reentry, and we were happy to be able to adapt the curriculum to our members’ needs. Each participant earned a certificate of completion demonstrating to current and future landlords their commitment to being great tenants.

Money Moves: Financial knowledge thanks to community partners

In partnership with Veridian Credit Union, we were able to again host Money Moves in February, a three-part financial literacy program. Inside Out members attended classes about budgeting, paying off debt, different types of loans, and how to improve their credit scores. Members who attended all three classes are eligible for a $250 match toward a secure credit card or CD account. We are grateful to Veridian for supporting our members in this important learning!

Join us for our upcoming Spring Concert Fundraiser!

Join us on May 31 from 3–5pm at Chauncey Swan Park in Iowa City for a rockin’ afternoon with the Cedar County Cobras, supporting neighbors returning to the community after incarceration. This free, family-friendly event is more than great music—it’s a celebration of inclusivity and gratitude for the community’s ongoing support of our mission. This year, enjoy the Cobras’ boot-stompin’ American Roots and Blues sound, inspired by old-time juke-joint traditions.

Become a sponsor

Sponsors play a huge role in making our Spring Concert a successful event! Each year, more than 100 people gather to enjoy this event. Your contribution helps us sustain our programs and services all year long. Help uplift those rebuilding their lives. Learn more about sponsorship opportunities here or by contacting Tracy at [email protected] or 319-338-7996.