Dear FAMMily,

FAMM will celebrate 35 years in existence in 2026 – Happy New Year! I am deeply honored to lead an organization whose work to change bad criminal justice policy goes back three and a half decades, touching tens of thousands of families. All year long, we will celebrate every law changed and every family reunited through our collective advocacy for 35 years.

As a wife and mother who married her husband in a federal penitentiary, I am saddened that FAMM’s mission remains as necessary today in 2026 as it did at our founding in 1991. Yes, we’ve achieved reform, but so much still is needed. My message today is for those families still suffering under the weight of devastating and unnecessary sentences, our loved ones inside trying to survive despite horrendous prison conditions, and all our supporters who want to change the criminal justice system in this country.

You are not alone.

And, you have a place and a purpose with FAMM.

We will continue to walk alongside you and provide community, support, and education. Exciting 2026 plans include

Significantly increased opportunities to connect to FAMM staff, each other, and our national community through FAMMily calls, advocacy initiatives and trainings, policy calls to actions, and more – including our incarcerated loved ones.
Giving survivors who believe in reform, like me, a stronger voice in the public dialogue about second chances.
Expanding our state compassionate release clearinghouse programs to help more of our incarcerated loved ones get access to quality, free legal and medical advocacy that can bring them home.
Updating and publishing more 50-state resources, so our members, lawmakers, and the media can better understand the change that is needed.

You have a role in fighting for a more fair and effective justice system. Every one of us does, with our varied life experiences and skills. For me, this first meant joining FAMMily calls, making a monthly donation that was meaningful to our household, and learning how to meet with lawmakers. My advocacy journey has grown and grown. What does yours look like? In 2026, we ask you to commit to your place and purpose with FAMM.