Our members – volunteers, board, staff and constituents – represent a diversity of people groups – whether described in terms of race, politics, philosophy, gender, sexual preference, criminality, education, marital status, economic or social standing, religion, ability, health or any of a number of ways that identify various people groups.

We identify the target population of our work as convicts and ex-convicts. Those of us who have been to prison have experienced first-hand what it means to be part of a people group that has experienced discrimination and rejection in many areas of life.

We affirm the worth and dignity of each person, and therefore seek to develop wholeness and integrity in each one. This allows individuals to move beyond identifying themselves only in terms of the people group or groups to which they belong in order to recognize and develop their own uniqueness and grow in respect for the uniqueness of others. This reflects a core value of PHOENIX: that understanding and trust develop through the intentional interaction of cultures and subcultures.

We believe that inclusivity is lived through action. All persons who aspire to be a part of our community must accept the responsibility to demonstrate civility and respect for the dignity of others, thus supporting an environment of trust and openness.