Support on both sides of the gate

We work inside California State Prisons. Families find us at the Visitor Center on visiting day. People who are incarcerated find us in the classroom, where we help them prepare for release and stay close to family.

Visiting a prison Classes inside

Five men in prison blues hold class certificates next to a Friends Outside staff member, in front of a painted mural. — Class graduates, inside

For families and visitors

Visitor Centers

Planning to visit someone in a California State Prison? Stop at the Friends Outside Visitor Center for the information and tools you need for a successful visit.

Clothing to borrow if yours doesn't meet the dress code
Rides from a nearby motel or bus station
Help with visiting rules, directions and local information

Find a Visitor Center How to plan a visit

For people who are incarcerated

Family Liaison Services

Our Family Liaison Services Specialists work inside the prisons. They teach classes, help with pre-release planning, and can help reconnect people with family.

Classes like Creative Conflict Resolution and Positive Parenting
Planning for a smoother transition after release
Help reconnecting with family members who have fallen out of touch

About Family Liaison Services Find a specialist

A class of incarcerated men with Friends Outside staff and a corrections officer, holding certificates. — Family Liaison Services class

Why your visit matters

Staying connected makes a real difference, inside and after release.

Inside
People who get visitors tend to do better while incarcerated, with fewer violations and write-ups.
Coming home
They're also more likely to succeed after release, with lower rates of returning to prison.
Family
Visits keep family bonds strong, especially between spouses and between parents and children.