Faith-Based programs, in prisons, have proven to be an effective tool for States endeavoring to institute positive reform measures. They have contributed significantly to the increase of academic attainment, skills development/vocational learning and the success of reentry initiatives. On the other hand, faith-based programs are also responsible for the reduction of violent crimes, assaults and murders committed while individuals are incarcerated. The reduction in recidivism rates have also been identified as a bi product of sound and effective faith initiatives.
The Booker T. Washington Initiative (BTWI) is committed to enhancing faith-based programs throughout the Texas Department of Corrections via the development of in-prison Bible College and Chapels. Following best practices, implementing the Louisiana State Penitentiary (LSP) Moral Rehabilitation Model, which has proven to have a prodigious impact on the adverse behavior of people who are incarcerated; BTWI will work with criminal justice reform partners and legislators to find solutions using biblical principles. LSP became a model for the country when it partnered with the New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary to open a Bible College on the grounds of the maximum-security prison (Angola). Since its inception in 1995, the Seminary has inspired the opening of Bible Colleges in states across America to include Texas.