NCJ Number
159183
Journal
Corrections Today Volume: 57 Issue: 6 Dated: (October 1995) Pages: 53,106,124
Date Published
1995
Length
3 pages
Annotation
After reviewing the history and traditional principles of the American Correctional Association (ACA), this address proposes a vision for the ACA that includes goals and a plan for achieving the goals.
Abstract
Bobbie L. Huskey, ACA president, projects an ideal future position for the ACA. Under this vision the ACA, its chapters, and affiliates will become an even stronger force in shaping the future of correctional legislation and public policy. Another element of the vision is the belief that ACA will strengthen its impact nationally when it forges greater coalitions with other organizations. Also, the vision is based in the belief that corrections and ACA should be guided by a set of professional values and principles that drive the legislation and policies pursued in the future. A five-point vision plan is proposed to achieve the goals. One point is that the ACA will become an organization that has the highest quality professional development activities possible. Second, the ACA will shape public perceptions and public policies about corrections. Third, the ACA will influence national legislation and even sponsor its own legislation. Fourth, the ACA will ensure that juvenile and community corrections will be guided by performance-based standards. Finally, the ACA will develop a network of strong chapter and regional organizations. Underlying the ACA vision of its future in corrections is its traditional commitment to rehabilitation and treatment as basic corrections policy rather than mean-spirited punishment.