by Deneatra Harmon

Sisters Returning Home provides reentry services to women in the Philadelphia area through mentorship, advocacy, workforce development, family reunification, and financial literacy. Founded in 2009 by long-time community activist Peggy Sims, the organization helps clients transition from prison back into society by reestablishing meaningful, personal connections within their communities. Through their work, Sisters Returning Home has helped more than hundreds of women accomplish their short- and long-term goals for reentering society.

Continuing in their mission to empower women every day, Sisters Returning Home is always expanding their work in their primary focus areas. Recent developments include a technology center, which offers on-site and virtual classes that focus on Microsoft Office and other technology and workplace skills. In addition, participants can learn how to build their resumes and get help with job searches and placement. Other offerings include financial literacy workshops to help improve money management knowledge and skills to build financial stability. Virtual peer support groups also provide a valuable resource for helping reentering women make connections.

Known as a voice for the oppressed and displaced, Sims has received numerous community service awards from former state Sen. Shirley Kitchen, and organizations such as the NAACP and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. She has also been recognized by the Pennsylvania Governor’s office, the Advisory Committee of African American Affairs, and Germantown Mennonite Church for her work with returning citizens in the Philadelphia area and throughout Pennsylvania.

As advocates for the fair treatment of women in the criminal justice system, Sisters Returning Home aims to inspire social and economic institutions to treat and serve each person equally. While they are heavily involved in the transition process, the organization also gives each client space to take ownership of their growth. Sisters Returning Home attributes success through witnessing the women’s determination to become more self-sufficient and rebuild their lives.

Sisters Returning Home welcomes volunteers. For more information, visit their website or contact them via email. 

For more information about Sisters Returning Home, contact Impact100 Grant Champion Denise Horan.