03/26/2026
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In December 2025, incarcerated individuals at Anamosa State Penitentiary once again partnered with Sallyโs On Broadway and the Austin Strong Foundation for an in-facility fundraiser organized by Cale Curoe, Activities Specialist at Anamosa State Penitentiary.
Participants had the opportunity to purchase a variety of sandwiches from Sallyโs with a $2 minimum donation. The response was outstanding โ more than 100 individuals participated, raising an initial $208. An additional $130 was later contributed, bringing the total to $338 donated to this amazing cause.
In addition to the sandwich fundraiser, another incarcerated individual-led group within the facility โ which grows and sells produce for the population โ was inspired by the September 2025 fundraiser and made a generous donation of $750 also to the Austin Strong Foundation.
This marks the second successful effort by incarcerated individuals at Anamosa State Penitentiary to support this cause, with another fundraiser already planned for later this year.
The photo captures a moment I wonโt forget โ Cale Curoe presenting me with a check for the funds raised, along with a beautiful painting created by one of the incarcerated individuals. That artwork was made entirely from their own personal funds โ a gift that goes far beyond dollars and speaks to something much deeper.
Itโs not just about the money. Itโs about humanity, generosity, and the quiet ways people choose to care, even when they have very little to give.
A powerful reminder that compassion and the desire to make a difference can come from anywhere โ and often from where you least expect it.