“Life Skills is a ray of hope in a place that’s got a lot of darkness and desperation.”
~ Chris Dukes, SCM client
The American Community Correctional Institute (ACCI) is an evidence-based provider of cognitive life skills courses and programs. Their objective is to challenge self-defeating thoughts and behaviors and focus on empowerment and self-discovery.
All inmates are given the opportunity to participate in the ACCI courses through a series of 14 self-directed workbook units, which are turned in and graded. These courses are written in a relatable, story format about real people and how they overcame their obstacles.
Successful completion of these workbooks results in inmates receiving official ACCI certification, which can then be shared with the courts and parole boards.
We have found that most inmates lack the necessary coping skills and practical knowledge to lead successful, meaningful lives.
Life Skills is a rigorous, seven-week program taught by SCM trained staff. Participants commit to attending class five days a week, five hours per day (175 hours). Male and female inmates who have completed at least 5 of the 14 ACCI workbook units are eligible to enroll in these classes.
The Life Skills courses focus on such topics as:
Click here for more details about the Life Skills curriculum.
We believe in the power of God’s grace to transform lives. Receiving that power has to begin with an introduction to God and His Word. We are so fortunate to have volunteers who conduct Bible studies for our inmate clients, minister to them, and pray with them. Many of these volunteers come from a variety of local churches that are eager to support our cause.
As members of the North Carolina Sheriffs’ Chaplains Association (NCSCA), we also offer chaplaincy services to jail officers and inmates.
We are always in need of volunteers. Do you feel called to help us heal the hurting by sharing God’s word?
Thanks to our partnership with South Piedmont Community College (SPCC), we are able to offer our inmate clients tutoring and instruction to them achieve their GED (General Educational Development), or HSE (High School Equivalency), and prepare them for a job upon release through Workforce Readiness classes.
SCM offers Celebrate Recovery Inside sessions to inmates in Union, Stanly, and Anson counties. These courses and materials enable inmates to familiarize themselves with a step-study program so they can feel comfortable when they attend Celebrate Recovery meetings in their community upon release.