Hi friends,
We have news, and we've been waiting a long time to say this out loud.
Emancipation Impact Network is officially recognized as a 501c3 tax-exempt nonprofit organization.
This moment is bigger than paperwork. It's proof that what started as a vision — a network built on empathy, solidarity, and the radical idea that no one should be left behind — is now a real, recognized, fundable force for change. We are here. We are legitimate. And we are just getting started.
Our flagship program, Peer Pal, has always been the heart of EIN. Connecting volunteers on the outside with incarcerated individuals through consistent, meaningful communication — one letter, one relationship, one bridge at a time. That work doesn't require a budget to begin, but it requires infrastructure to grow.
With our 501c3 status in place, we can now formally pursue the grants and funding partnerships that will allow Peer Pal to scale — reaching more facilities, matching more pairs, and building the kind of documented impact that sustains a movement long-term.
If you know a foundation, grantmaker, or funding partner whose values align with criminal justice reform, reentry support, or community-led advocacy — we would love an introduction. This is one of the most meaningful ways you can support EIN right now.
Every grant we receive goes directly toward building the infrastructure Peer Pal needs to match volunteers with incarcerated individuals thoughtfully, safely, and at scale.
Thank you for believing in this before it had a name, a filing, or a future that looked this clear. We couldn't have gotten here without this community.
With so much gratitude,
Elise Swopes
President, Emancipation Impact Network
Hi friends,
I’m Elise Swopes, an artist, activist, and proud Emancipation Impact Network (EIN) president. Today, I’m thrilled to share an exciting milestone in our journey toward re-enfranchising individuals impacted by incarceration, educating those who aren’t, and working collectively to abolish the prison-industrial complex.
After months of dedication, planning, and collaboration, EIN is officially a nonprofit and well on our way to becoming a 501c3 recognized organization. When is a gateway to expanding our reach, solidifying our programs, and ensuring we have the foundation to create lasting change.
Our mission started as an idea: a network that uplifts voices directly impacted by incarceration and connects them with communities ready to listen, learn, and take action. We envisioned a space where people could share stories, create art, build solidarity, and dismantle the systems that perpetuate harm.
Now, with our nonprofit status in place, we’re ready to make those visions tangible — from launching our Peer Pal Project, which connects incarcerated individuals with supporters on the outside, to hosting events, publishing creative works from inside, and developing tech-based tools for connection and advocacy.
Nonprofit status is a huge step forward — but to bring our projects to life, we need fiscal sponsorships, grants, and funding partnerships. These resources will allow us to:
The prison-industrial complex thrives on isolation, silence, and systemic inequities. By bridging the gap between those inside and outside, we can dismantle these barriers and create meaningful, lasting change. EIN is about more than programs — it’s about building a movement rooted in empathy, truth, and collective power.
This is just the beginning. We’re building something that we hope will outlive all of us — a network that refuses to leave anyone behind. Thank you for walking with us in this fight for freedom, dignity, and justice.
With gratitude and determination,
Elise Swopes
President, Emancipation Impact Network
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