cultural-connections

“CCA has been a great partner with us for nearly a decade now. Coffee Correctional Facility and Wheeler Correctional Facility certainly meet the standards of the Georgia Department of Corrections. I particularly appreciate CCA maintaining exemplary accreditation status with both the American Correctional Association and the National Commission on Correctional Healthcare. I look forward to a continued long relationship with them.”


- Commissioner James E. Donald, Georgia Department of Corrections

Benefits of OOSIM | Maintaining Family Ties | Cultural Connections

Cultural Connections

CCA respects that out-of-state inmates generally bring their own cultural practices and beliefs with them when they cross state lines.

Such inmates can present a variety of customs, rituals and traditions that have deep meaning. CCA recognizes that continuing to practice these rites can help inmates as they adapt to new norms. Plus, adhering to related lifestyle commitments can act as a great stabilizer for populations distanced from their familiar mode of living.

CCA works to honor the mores of out-of-state inmates by fashioning approaches that help to preserve cultural practices. When possible, the company collaborates with a variety of organizations to develop programming and recruit capable volunteers to deliver culturally-centered services.

For example, Hawaiian inmates at Saguaro Correctional Center in Eloy, Arizona celebrate Makahiki Day, a celebration of the harvest season, with Hawaiian community leaders leading a four-day celebration.

Features of cultural recognition at CCA facilities include:

  • Culturally significant celebrations for Hawaiian, Alaskan and other populations
  • Vocational offerings that reflect regional trades and hobbies, such as beading, carving and scrimshawing for Northern Pacific and Native Alaskan inmates
  • Faith-based offerings for a range of religions, based on the stated beliefs of the facility population
  • Bilingual programmatic offerings
  • Culturally-informed meal planning

CCA’s comprehensive approach to culture is customized according to the needs of a facility’s population, in conjunction with standards spelled out in the customer agency’s contract. Heightened inmate morale is a direct outcome of these efforts.