What We Do.

The Alliance for Incarcerated Women (AIW) is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and advocating for women impacted by incarceration. We believe in the dignity and humanity of all people. Our team of volunteers work tirelessly to provide incarcerated women and their families with access to medical advocacy, pro bono legal support, and family reunification programming.

Education & Advocacy

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.

Family Reunification

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.

Empowering Connections

AIW maintains a national database of nonprofits dedicated to supporting formerly incarcerated women, connecting them with essential resources and fostering collaboration across organization.

Mission

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.

Vision

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.

Advisors and Staff

The Alliance for Incarcerated Women (AIW) is led by two dedicated women who share a passion for empowering incarcerated women. We look forward to welcoming additional advisors and team members as we continue to grow.

Rachel Van Etten

Advisor

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

Advisor

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 Enriquez

Belen Enriquez

Advisor

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.

Bridget Hurley

Advisor

A seasoned leader with a passion for driving positive change, Bridgett brings a diverse background in healthcare, nonprofits, and social justice issues to this role. Leveraging expertise in people development, coaching, and strategy, Bridgett empowers others to achieve transformative results.

Julia Keleher

Project Lead

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.

Need Assistance

Helping an incarcerated woman navigate the challenges of life in prison can feel overwhelming. But no one has to go through it alone. The Alliance for Incarcerated Women is here to help. Fill out the brief form below to connect with one of our knowledgeable advocates and explore the resources and support available through our network. Please refrain from sharing any legal details, personal information, or sensitive content in this form.

Give us a ring

Julia Keleher

202.322.7373

Contact Us