According to a report published by the Public Safety Performance Project, of the Pew Charitable Trusts, Arizona is ranked second, behind Montana, in projected prison population increase from 2006 to 2011.  Nationally, state prison populations are projected to increase by 12%; making Arizona’s projections nearly 3 times the national level.

The report stated that Arizona’s 2006 inmate population was 35,965.  By 2011 it is projected to be 48,381.  At the daily cost per inmate, of $61.74, published by the Arizona Department of Corrections for FY2007/08, the cost to taxpayers for incarcerating the projected number of inmates in 2011 will exceed

                                     ONE BILLION DOLLARS!

It is reported that 97% of all Arizona inmates will eventually be released; and that more than 60% return to prison in less than 3 years.  The human cost becomes more than just dollars and cents. 

We have a track record of less than 10% returning to prison, of those who have successfully completed our Discipleship Training Program.  It costs us less than $8,000 per person for a twelve-month discipleship and life skill training program.  More importantly, we witness truly changed lives in our graduate men and women, as they enter society prepared to live crime-free, productive lives.

We are grateful to our champions - the mentors, Bible study leaders and those who financially support God’s work at Along Side Ministries.  Please call us at 602-995-9484 if you would like more information about our work with God’s children coming out of prison.

Collis Huntington                                                        

Executive Director                                                   

chuntington@asmaz.com