Center for Community Alternatives (CCA) supports and builds power with people across New York State who have been affected by mass incarceration, criminalization and community disinvestment.
Through a statewide network of direct services, advocacy and organizing, and by supporting the leadership of directly-impacted people, we advance civil and human rights for all New Yorkers.
CCA works to build a world where everyone has what they need to thrive.
CCA is founded on several basic values and principles:
Commitment to Public Safety and Accountability
Community alternatives promote law abiding, responsible behavior on the part of participants. We believe that people respond to positive services and support which empower them to take control and redirect their lives while holding them accountable for their behavior.
Commitment to Individual Care
Each participant possesses unique strengths and needs. Personal transformation is an individual experience. Our goal is to assist participants in achieving productive, healthy, and safe lives.
Commitment to Community
CCA is committed to strengthening the connection between community and the individual. A caring, healthy community is an important part of crime prevention and individual rehabilitation.
Commitment to the Field
CCA is committed to creating rational and humane social and public policy. Our dedicated, professional staff delivers quality services to CCA participants and information and technical assistance to professionals in the field, as well as the general public.
Based on these values and principles, CCA provides a variety of services, including court advocacy, health education, substance use treatment, employment coaching, and reentry support. Within these service areas, CCA seeks to meet the particular needs of youth and women.