AVP Arrives at FCI Fairton
- mailavpnj
- 21 hours ago
- 1 min read
By N. Sherwood, GED Teacher, FCI Fairton
(Lightly edited by AVPNJ)
The Alternatives to Violence Project (AVP) arrived at FCI Fairton on January 13, 2026 for the first time. AVP has been entering prisons worldwide and changing the foundations
of the inmates and the yard since its creation in 1975.
How it came to be: An inmate from FCI Ray Brook took the program while housed
there in upstate New York. He was then transferred here and brought the program
to my attention. He mentioned how positive and transforming the program is
and suggested that our yard could definitely use a turnaround in positivity.
I am always seeking to find programs that the inmates can participate in that will
benefit them in some positive way. So far, our first 3-day workshop was a major success
and inmates all over the compound are asking when they can get a turn to take part
in the Program.
History of AVP: It originated at the Green Haven Correctional Facility, a maximum security prison in NY, in 1975. The project was founded by inmates at the institution, working with local Quakers who were part of the Quaker Project on Community Conflict, and members of the Civil Rights movement. They began holding workshops for prisoners to practice
methods of conflict resolution. They adopted a “train the trainer” model so that workshop participants (inmates) could become facilitators themselves.
Fun Fact: We actually had 5 inmate facilitators for AVP presently here at FCI Fairton
who were able to help run this first training. It was great!
AVP can be a life changer. It is very upbeat, hands-on, and brings a positive mindset to places where it can be a little hard to do sometimes. If you don’t have AVP going in your institution, you are strongly encouraged to do it.
FCI Fairton Testimonials
“I’ve participated in a lot of programming while in the BOP. This workshop was the most intensive and insightful three days that I’ve experienced yet. The volunteers were amazing and I would recommend AVP to anyone who is truly trying to better their life.”
-“Transforming Terrance” (Participant)
“AVP was one of the best programs I’ve taken while being incarcerated. It allowed me to step out of my comfort zone, get to know inmates that I have never interacted with, and feel like I wasn’t in prison for three days. The facilitators were awesome and truly have a heart for helping others. This program can benefit anyone, whether
incarcerated or in the community.”
-“Magnificent Marco” (Participant)
“I have taken over 75 programs and AVP is by far the best one yet! Its had lasting effects and I see it taking the compound by storm.”
-“Juxtaposing James” (Participant)
“The Magic of AVP is real. In one 3-day basic workshop, I’m already hearing positive affirmation names being said all over the compound. AVP wastes no time in building a better community, regardless of the location.”
-“Dependable Dan” (Inmate Facilitator)
“I was recently afforded the opportunity to participate in the Alternatives to Violence workshop at FCI Fairton. It is a unique opportunity I was fortunate enough to have been selected for. I would recommend this program to every prisoner seeking to improve themselves, the other men around them, and the carceral environment. It was emphasized that relationships and communications. We learned that one can always find non-violent solutions when you think before reacting.
-“Charismatic Casey” (Participant)
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