In 2025, the Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) integrated The 7 Habits on the Inside into The Oregon Way, building on a model first launched by the Colorado Department of Corrections in 1998.
Colorado has since graduated more than 10,000 adults in custody and staff members, implementing the program in nearly all of its facilities and establishing designated units for graduates. Long-term data from Colorado indicates the program creates a shared language between staff and incarcerated individuals, helping reduce the traditional “us versus them” dynamic and strengthening institutional culture.
The program was later introduced at Fort Leavenworth, the U.S. military’s only maximum-security prison. Leaders there noted its strong impact in helping both staff and military offenders adopt a common framework centered on accountability and responsibility. Data presented in 2018 showed promising post-release outcomes, including a minimal return rate among graduates released on parole.
The Oregon Way, an Oregon Department of Corrections initiative, continues to deliver meaningful improvements in staff wellness, institutional safety, and adult in custody (AIC) outcomes across multiple facilities. Through Dynamic Security and normalization practices, teams are seeing measurable operational and cultural benefits that are strengthening institutions systemwide.
Across participating facilities, The Oregon Way is helping teams move from reactive responses to proactive engagement. The result is a safer environment for staff, stronger operations, and more positive outcomes for adults in custody.
Oregon and New Mexico come together to learn, share, and lead through teamwork
Attendees from OSP, CCCF, Special Housing, Oregon Way, and New Mexico
It was clear from the very beginning that this was going to be a meaningful day at the Oregon State Penitentiary (OSP). The training opened with a warm welcome from the Oregon Department of Corrections Director Mike Reese, who spoke about the importance of collaboration and the value of learning from colleagues in other correctional systems. His words set an encouraging tone, reminding everyone why partnerships like this one with the New Mexico Department of Corrections matter so much.
From there, the morning moved into a series of powerful presentations. John Taber introduced The Oregon Way – A Team Approach, explaining that this is more than just a model; it’s a culture. He described how consistency, teamwork, and trust shape daily interactions and create safer, more respectful environments inside Oregon’s facilities.
Building on that, Charlie Brinton walked the group through the Contact Mentor Team concept. He explained how giving officers the responsibility to directly connect with adults in custody allows concerns to be addressed early, and relationships to be built on accountability and mutual respect. The participants could see how this approach makes a real difference in day-to-day operations.
The focus then turned to the Activity Team, led by Lieutenant Yonally and staff from Coffee Creek Correctional Facility (CCCF). They shared how structured, meaningful activities provide more than just safe outlets—they help reinforce pro-social behavior and give adults in custody opportunities to succeed in positive ways. Rounding out the morning, Ruben Deanda from CCCF spoke about the Freedom House Transition Unit, a space designed to prepare individuals for reentry with mentorship, structure, and accountability. His passion for the work resonated with everyone in the room.
Resource Team Activity
In the afternoon, it was time to see theory put into practice. Lieutenant Trimble introduced the Resource Team, first with a video presentation and then with a demonstration of how the team works to de-escalate situations and provide support during moments of high stress. Participants were then given a guided tour of the facility, where they saw firsthand what life looks like inside OSP.
The Contact Officer Support Program, aligned with the principles of the Oregon Way, was designed to equip staff at Columbia River Correctional Institution with additional training, resources, and decision-making authority to better support incarcerated individuals. By creating strong, positive relationships, the program helps create a safer and more stable environment, encouraging personal growth and success.
For adult in custody (AIC) Timothy Coulter, this support had a lasting impact. With guidance from dedicated Contact Officers, he found the encouragement and opportunities needed to turn challenges into success. Timothy recently graduated from the program and was invited to share his thoughts on what the program meant to him and the difference it made in his life.
The Oregon Department of Corrections is thrilled to share some outstanding news about the Oregon State Penitentiary’s (OSP) Resource Team and their transformative work with the Behavioral Health Unit (BHU) and Mental Health Infirmary (MHI).
Two Rivers Correctional Institutions Religious Services Programs support the Oregon Way. In late June, with the assistance of Security Managers and Rehabilitations Service Managers, adults in custody exchanged wedding vows. Exchanging vows wasn’t the only highlight of the day, AICs were authorized to “dressed up” for the event. Read their stories below.
