Name: How prisons can help inmates live meaningful lives
Uploaded: 2014-08-13T14:47:42Z
Duration: 10 min 22 s
Description: In the United States, the agencies that govern prisons are often called 'Department of Corrections.' And yet, their focus is on containing and controlling inmates. Dan Pacholke, Deputy Secretary for the Washington State Department of Corrections, shares a different vision: of prisons that provide humane living conditions as well as opportunities for meaningful work and learning.

In the United States, the agencies that govern prisons are often called 'Department of Corrections.' And yet, their focus is on containing and controlling inmates. Dan Pacholke, Deputy Secretary for the Washington State Department of Corrections, shares a different vision: of prisons that provide humane living conditions as well as opportunities for meaningful work and learning.

How prisons can help inmates live meaningful lives

Most US prisons focus on control, yet the nation locks up more people per capita than any other country and now serves as the largest mental health provider. By shifting from brute force to small, humane changes—like training officers and inmates in de-escalation, redesigning living spaces, and introducing meaningful work—prisons have become safer and more constructive. Projects like inmate-led restoration of endangered species and organic gardening sparked engagement and hope behind bars. Rethinking corrections opens new futures for both staff and those incarcerated.