ASCA formed in 1970 and was formally incorporated as a New York State
not-for-profit corporation in 1985. It has been designated a tax-exempt
entity by the IRS. ASCA is dedicated to the improvement of correctional
services and practices through promoting and facilitating:
- The exchange of ideas and philosophies at the top administrative level
of correctional planning and policy-making;
- The advancement of correctional techniques, particularly in the areas
of development, design of correctional facilities, staff training, and
correctional management facilities;
- Public support for and understanding of the criminal justice system
with particular emphasis on the corrections function and the interest
and acceptance by the community of its responsibility for the prevention
of delinquency and the reintegration of persons who have come into conflict
with the law;
- Research in correctional practices, anti-social behavior, causes of
crime and delinquency and cooperation in such research;
- The development and application of correctional standards and accreditation;
- The fostering of legislative and other measures designed to accomplish
this objective; and
- The exchange of information with international agencies and organizations
interested in correctional programs, and the undertaking of such work
and projects of an allied character as may be authorized by the membership.