People affected by incarceration deserve a voice, real support and a fair chance to move forward.

Loved Ones Coalition brings incarcerated people, returning citizens, families and supporters together to advocate for better conditions, help people navigate incarceration and reentry, share useful information, and make sure the people living through the system are heard.

How we work

We speak up, and we stay open to working together.

Real change takes honesty, persistence and relationships. We raise concerns directly, listen carefully and work with people who are willing to improve conditions.

Led by lived experience

People affected by incarceration help lead this work, shape our priorities and share what families and returning citizens actually need.

Evidence before exaggeration

We are careful with people’s stories and clear about what was reported, documented, corroborated or observed.

People before institutions

Policies matter because people live with their consequences every day.

Relationships that move work forward

We engage community and institutional stakeholders while protecting LOC’s independence.

Leadership and team

Meet the people doing the work.

Founder & President

Christine Amador

Christine founded LOC after navigating the incarceration of a loved one. She leads strategy, family education, coalition relationships and federal prison oversight initiatives.

View Christine’s book, Chains Break, Faith Rises

Executive Director

Aaron Peila

Aaron brings nearly 14 years of lived experience within the federal prison system. He builds relationships, educates families, documents concerns and expands public understanding.

Executive Assistant

Cassandra Gretillat

Cassandra supports daily operations, communication, outreach and family assistance.

Board Member

Gary “Bumper” Dodson

Gary contributes lived-experience leadership, strategic planning, community outreach, reentry advocacy and public education.

Marketing & Community Outreach

Chelsea “Chelo” Henderson

Chelsea shapes LOC’s public presence through branding, storytelling, events and accessible communications.

Nonprofit status

A federally recognized public charity.

Organization: Loved Ones Coalition
Status: 501(c)(3) public charity
Effective: March 18, 2026
EIN: 41-4563650

View the official IRS determination letter