How do I become a member?

The best way to become a member is to donate online.

You can also send a check payable to “Prison Journalism Project” to:

Prison Journalism Project
3501 Southport Ave #204 
Chicago, IL 60657

Am I a PJP member?

If you’ve donated or pledged to donate a minimum of $120 to Prison Journalism Project — either one time or in recurring monthly installments — on or after November 1, 2023, you are a PJP member.

What are the perks of being a PJP member?

Our sincere thanks! You also get the member-exclusive benefits listed below. Most importantly, your donation supports PJP’s mission to train incarcerated writers in the skills of journalism so that they can tell their stories. All donations are tax-deductible if you live in the United States.

Plus, the first 150 members become Founding Members who help to guide the direction of PJP’s membership program

Readers Circle ($10 monthly or $120 – $299 per year)

All members at this level receive the following benefits:

  • Our members-only digital newsletter featuring exclusive stories, insights and updates.
  • A one-time discount code for 15% off PJP merchandise 
  • Exclusive access to our annual Impact Report highlighting our successes, opportunities and challenges 

Writers Circle ($300 – $599 per year)

All members will receive everything at the Readers Circle level plus:

  • Our PJP Inside newspaper, showcasing the best stories by PJP journalists, (digital and/or by mail) produced four times per year

Illuminators Circle ($600+ per year)

All members receive everything at Writers Circle Level plus:

  • Invitations to exclusive special virtual events focused on discussions around criminal legal policy and reform. 

How do I update or cancel a recurring donation?

The easiest way to update or cancel a recurring donation is through your account page. You can also send us an email at memberships@prisonjournalismproject.org.

Is my donation tax-deductible?

PJP is an independent nonprofit organization as defined by Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Contributions or gifts to Prison Journalism Project are tax-deductible (EIN 87-3805290).

Do you accept matching gifts?

Yes! Many employers have matching gift programs and will match charitable contributions made by their employees. Some companies even match gifts made by retirees and/or spouses. These donations really make a difference.

How does Prison Journalism Project use my donation?

Your membership donation helps us cover the costs necessary to train incarcerated writers in the tools of journalism and publish their stories, so they can shed light on the U.S. system of mass incarceration. You can help us change the narrative by changing the storytellers. Become a PJP member today!

Do you have a donor privacy policy?

Yes, you can read our Donor Privacy Policy here.