AIW provides educational resources, medical advocacy and pro bono legal services for incarcerated women. We fight for fair treatment, ensure access to essential healthcare, and empower them to understand their rights.
AIW fosters a network of support, helping women maintain connections with their loved ones during and after incarceration. We facilitate family reunification programs, promoting healing and strengthening family bonds.
AIW maintains a national database of nonprofits dedicated to supporting formerly incarcerated women, connecting them with essential resources and fostering collaboration across organization.
The Alliance for Incarcerated Women, powered by the Aleph Institute, disrupts the cycle of incarceration for women. Our mission is to ignite hope and equip women behind bars with the tools they need to heal, rebuild their lives, and rejoin their communities.
The Alliance for Incarcerated Women envisions a future where incarcerated women have access to the resources and support they deserve. We see a transformed system that prioritizes well-being, fairness, and the strength of families.
A results-oriented leader with over 15 years of experience in the criminal justice reform and social services non-profit sectors, Rachel brings a wealth of expertise in operations, fundraising, and program development. Currently pursuing a PhD in Criminal Justice at the University of Cincinnati, Rachel has a proven track record of leading and growing non-profit organizations, fostering innovation, and securing significant funding.
Amanda Woolford is the Director of Women’s Services for the Maine Department of Corrections, with nearly 20 years of correctional and case management experience. She has led organizational change through several administrations and implemented innovative strategies that have positively impacted the lives of both juvenile and adult offenders. Amanda holds a BS from Northeastern University and an MS from Boston University, and she is a champion for ethical, dynamic, and cutting-edge correctional practices and passionate about gender responsive and trauma informed approaches.
Belen brings a unique blend of legal expertise and firsthand experience to the Alliance for Incarcerated Women. A successful entrepreneur, with a passion for criminal justice reform, Belen leverages her sharp legal acumen and strategic thinking to advocate for incarcerated women. Currently, Belen serves as the Office Director at the Law Offices of Paul Petruzzi, a renowned federal criminal defense firm in Miami. Her insights have also been featured in various media outlets, further amplifying her voice for reform. Belen has assisted numerous individuals with early release and navigating complex legal matters.
Tiana Smith is a Senior Policy Analyst with The Council of State Governments (CSG) Justice Center, Corrections and Reentry Division. She provides technical assistance for the OJJDP-funded program addressing the needs of incarcerated parents and their children, helping states enhance visitation policies and implement supportive programs. Tiana also has lived experience, as her mother was incarcerated during her childhood, leading her to age out of the child welfare system. She holds a BA in Human Services from La Roche University and an MS in Criminal Justice Administration from Point Park University.
Dr. Alix M. McLearen is a licensed clinical psychologist, federal law enforcement officer, and seasoned executive with decades of experience in corrections. Appointed by Attorney General Merrick Garland in 2022, she led the National Institute of Corrections, shaping correctional policies for over 750,000 professionals across the country. Dr. McLearen has held numerous leadership roles in the Bureau of Prisons, including Chief Psychologist, National Administrator of the Women and Special Populations Branch, and Senior Deputy Assistant Director of Reentry Services. She has been a trailblazer in improving reentry practices, creating programs for vulnerable populations, and advancing innovative solutions in correctional settings.
With over 25 years of leadership experience, Julia specializes in driving systemic change and developing future leaders. Leveraging expertise in interconnected challenges and lived experience in the criminal justice system, Julia delivers impactful results for organizations seeking to reform criminal justice.
Julia Keleher
202.322.7373
