All Community In-Reach projects currently take place at Columbia River Correctional Institution (CRCI) a men’s minimum-security releasing prison in Portland, Oregon. Community In-Reach projects are planned for the Oregon State Penitentiary (OSP) in Salem, Oregon. Currently all projects are staffed by volunteers. Funding comes solely from donations by individuals. Participation by convicts and parolees is strictly voluntary.

Problem-Solving.This was the first project PHOENIX brought into the prison. Since 2001, two retired Portland State University professors and an ex-convict Cultural Advisor have taught two levels of this course, which focuses on problem solving, cognitive restructuring and conflict resolution.

Transition Forum. PHOENIX added this monthly forum to its projects at CRCI in 2002. An organizer, Cultural Advisors and volunteers from the community spend two hours on Saturday morning speaking with those in the general prison population who are nearest to release (averaging about 30 men per month). They are encouraged to consider what they will do differently upon release and how they will make that happen. The forum provides people with links to community institutions prior to release. It also serves as a practicum in leadership skills for men who have participated in our leadership training.

Community and student leaders in Relational Culture Strategies training.

Relational Culture Strategies. PHOENIX initiated this leadership training course at CRCI in 2004. It meets weekly, but there are three four-week intensive trainings per year. Three levels of these trainings run concurrently. In RCS I the participant is a student; in RCS II the participant is a small group leader; in RCS III, the participant is a teacher or facilitator. PHOENIX has held seven trainings since 2004. 120 men have completed this training.