The POINT Model Overview
The Challenge
Mass incarceration fractures families, burdens communities, and removes positive role models—disproportionately impacting people and communities of color. Too often, people leave prison in worse condition than when they entered, at enormous human and fiscal cost. In Arizona, roughly half of the prison population has been previously incarcerated in the state, reinforcing cycles of harm rather than opportunity.
34,000
approx. incarcerated in the state of Arizona
$1.7 billion
yearly cost of the Arizona correctional system
95%
of the incarcerated population will one day return to our communities
The Solution – The POINT Model
We envision a world where people are leaving prison ready to contribute to their families, communities, and society. We fundamentally transform the prison environment by creating the necessary infrastructure such that any program, class, or workshop can easily be implemented. People incarcerated and correctional staff collaborate with us to transform the incarceration experience into one where institutions of higher learning, community partners, and governments anywhere can share responsibility for the well-being of people in prison.
More Resources
More Opportunities
Fewer People in Prison
The POINT Model is a framework developed by CCS that prioritizes sustained university investment in the well-being of people living and working in correctional settings. POINT stands for Potential, Opportunity, Investment, Nurture, and Transformation and reflects a commitment to creating conditions where people can grow rather than merely endure incarceration.
Through the POINT Model, CCS brings university resources, community partners, and correctional stakeholders together to build infrastructure that allows meaningful programs, classes, and initiatives to take root inside facilities. Rather than relying on isolated interventions, the POINT Model supports a holistic, strengths-based approach to well-being that spans six interconnected domains.
Physical & Mental Well-being
Promote physical and mental health through preventative healthcare strategies
Economic Well-being
Build financial knowledge and pursue and obtain employment opportunities
Social Well-being
Foster healthy relationships through parenting and interpersonal communication skills
Cultural Well-being
Encourage awareness and compassion for understanding people from different walks of life
Emotional Well-being
Nurture personal growth strategies, relational awareness, and stress management
Educational Well-being
Engage and inspire the pursuit of knowledge at all levels of education
