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, Larry Steward and Barry Anderson, and an ex-convict Cultural Advisor, Harry Olsen, have taught two levels of this course, which focuses on problem solving, cognitive restructuring and conflict resolution. Dr. Steward retired from PHOENIX in 2009. Scott Brazieal, a community volunteer, is a regular facilitator along with Dr. Anderson and Mr. Olsen. In addition, Doug Cooper of MercyCorps NW teaches students how to problem-solve in making business plans once a month. Students may be eligible for grant money from MercyCorps and receive continued assistance with their business once they are released.

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.

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. 180 men have completed this training.