March 2026 | Organizational Updates & Programs

2026 is a year for IAHR to lead boldly, deepen its roots in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia, and build the infrastructure needed for long-term transformation. Behind the headlines about legislation and coalitions, there is a growing organizational foundation of programs expanding, funding increasing, and new systems being built that make all of our advocacy possible. Here is a look at what is happening across IAHR right now.

The Pen Pal Program: 100 New Inquiries and Growing

IAHR's Pen Pal Program has always served a dual purpose: providing a human connection to people experiencing isolation inside our prison system, while generating real-time, firsthand information about conditions that directly informs our advocacy and policy work. That program is now growing faster than ever.

Following recent outreach efforts, Rabbi Feinberg reported over 100 new inquiries from people seeking to participate in the program — a powerful signal of both the demand for connection among incarcerated individuals and the depth of IAHR's volunteer base. IAHR is exploring additional partnerships to ensure the Pen Pal and grievance assistance programs remain sustainable and scalable as they grow. Interested in joining our Pen Pal Program? CLICK HERE.

Grievance Assistance: Expanding Access to Advocacy

In Virginia, under the leadership of two extremely dedicated volunteers, IAHR's Grievance and Pen Pal programs remain strong. Recent engagement with the Virginia Correctional Ombudsman's office reflects IAHR's growing credibility and effectiveness in addressing concerns raised by incarcerated individuals. A formal written report from that office is anticipated in the coming month.

In Maryland, Ed Koch and Natasha White have begun developing a grievance assistance framework modeled after Virginia's successful program — an important step toward ensuring that incarcerated individuals across multiple jurisdictions have access to advocacy and oversight support.

Looking Ahead

IAHR's 2026 Strategic Plan reflects a clear commitment: End solitary confinement and brutality; Expand rehabilitative programs and reentry support; Strengthen partnerships and visibility across Maryland, Virginia, D.C., and beyond; and Grow the leadership, governance, and fundraising capacity to sustain this vital work for years to come.

Thank you for being part of what IAHR is building.