Capacity: 1500
Client: Georgia Department of Corrections (GA DOC)
Accreditations: American Correctional Association (ACA) and National Commission on Correctional Health Care (NCCHC)
In 2011 the GEO Group, Inc. (GEO) was awarded a contract by the Georgia Department of Corrections for the finance, design, construction, and operation of Riverbend Correctional Facility.
Inmates receive academic and vocational programming as well as medical care, substance abuse treatment programs, and group support. The desired mission of the facility is to provide quality programming to promote successful re-entry of inmates. The Continuum of Care model currently implemented at Riverbend Correctional Facility and places an intense focus on therapeutic programming, education and job training based on current job market trends.
The facility achieved initial accreditation through the American Correctional Association and reaccreitation in 2022 with a score of 99.77%. The facility was also accredited by the National Commission on Correctional Health Care (NCCHC) in 2013 and 2015.
Through a rigorous review process, Riverbend Correctional and Rehabilitation Facility (RCRF) has demonstrated its ongoing commitment to educational excellence and has received renewed accreditation from Cognia. Maintaining Cognia accreditation is important for correctional facilities because it ensures a high standard of educational quality, which is directly linked to lower recidivism rates, improved post-release employment, and a safer environment within the facility. By holding programs accountable to rigorous, evidence-based criteria, accreditation validates their educational value and positive impact on incarcerated individuals. From day one, our goal has been to assist the culture within the facility by giving incarcerated individuals a sense of purpose and hope, which contributes to a safer environment for both staff and inmates. Education in corrections is a vital tool for rehabilitation that reduces recidivism and improves post-release employment. By equipping individuals with the skills and knowledge to succeed, it helps them reintegrate into society and break cycles of crime. For these reasons, RCRF will continue to strive and evolve our Education Department. We would also like to give special recognition to Donna Jacobs, Academic Instructor, for her hard work and dedication to the accreditation process. Donna, we are a success, because of you and your passion for education. Thank you for all you do! READ MORE