Correctional agencies have a responsibility to present and promote a wide range of programs and services developed to meet the legitimate needs and interests of the offenders and to encourage and facilitate their participation. Services available to the general public must be utilized in the correctional process whenever possible and practical. Correctional objectives should be met through shared responsibility and cooperative action by the community, correctional workers, other segments of the criminal justice system and the offenders themselves. Correctional agencies must be open. Specific procedures are needed to enhance public awareness and understanding of and participation in the correctional process in view of the social investment involved therein.
Staff are of paramount importance in accomplishing the goals of any correctional agency.
They will make their optimum contribution if supported by effective personnel development opportunities and positive working conditions. Staff should have the opportunity to participate in the formulation of policies related to both programs and administration. Staff organizations should be involved in furthering this process. Correctional agencies must be characterized by the effective use of resources. Efforts to achieve and maintain effectiveness require a responsiveness to a continuing program of data gathering, evaluation and review.