08 Sep Cadence Competition Takes Place at CUCF

All four sections of the Ironwood housing unit at Central Utah Correctional Facility recently participated in a cadence competition.

The concept: See who can create and perform a military-style rhythm that echoes the positive message of the therapeutic program the incarcerated individuals participate in.

Capt. Jennifer Mullins, who supervises the units at Ironwood, said it was those in the program who came up the idea.

“They pitched it to the section, they all worked together to make it happen,” she said. “It helps them take pride in what they are doing.”

Ironwood is set up as a therapeutic community, where inmates work on a highly structured treatment plan for 12 months or more. The program’s therapeutic design intentionally uses a positive peer culture and environment, where high standards, morals of “right living” and pro-social core values are reinforced with privileges, rewards and recognition.

Alfredo Lolani, who was one of those who came up with the idea for the competition, noted that getting everyone onboard “wasn’t an easy task.”

“We’re trying to build some solidarity,” he said. “We’re trying to show these guys another way. This brings everyone together. It a challenge to show themselves.”

The sections created the acronym PREVAIL (People Recovering Every Value Available In Life) and used it in the presentations.

For Steve Smith, the competition was fun. Being part of Ironwood community, though, it the big thing.

“This is the most energized thing I’ve been able to do in this institution,” he said of the program.

“I’m here for the next man, he’s here for me.

“This is the happiest I’ve been since I’ve been incarcerated.”

You can view the video here.