150 years of Inspiring Hope
Since 1875, Community Partners in Action has been at the forefront of criminal justice reform, building brighter futures for individuals, families, and communities. Our story is one of resilience, innovation, and hope—a journey from our earliest days as the Prisoner’s Friends’ Society to today, where we stand as one of the nation’s oldest criminal justice organizations.
We invite you to explore our 150th Anniversary Timeline, a dynamic look at the milestones that have shaped our mission and our impact. From groundbreaking advocacy in the 19th century to innovative reentry programs today, our history reflects a commitment to creating opportunities and inspiring change.
Click below to take a step back in time and witness how our work has transformed over the decades—and continues to make a difference every day.
Poor Conditions at Connecticut Prisons Sparks Public Interest
Hartford Courant on "The Prison Commission, Report of the General Assembly"
Hartford Courant on "The Prison Commission, Report of the General Assembly"
Prisoner's Friends' Society is Formed
Some of CPA's Early Founders
First Meeting Site
Articles of Association
Name Changes to Connecticut Prison Association
Yale's Francis Wayland Becomes President
CPA's First Agent Serves 34 years
Prison Reform Begins
Indeterminate Sentencing
Statewide Adult Probation Created
Women's Prison Opens and Juvenile Justice Developed
Chief Justice William M. Maltbie Serves as President of CPA
CPA In-Prison Work Program Supports WWII Effort
CPA Spearheads Major Legislative Accomplishments
CPA Champions the Creation of CT Department of Correction
Legislative Accomplishments
CPA Creates Volunteer Sponsor Program
CPA Introduces New Innovations in Criminal Justice
Alternative to Incarceration Established
CPA's Legislative Accomplishments
Resettlement (Reentry), A Name Change, and Juvenile Justice Programs Expanded
CPA Creates State of the Art Complex on Washington St.
CPA Celebrates 125 Years
50 Years of CPA Leadership
Reentry Centers and REGIONS Open, And 150th Year Begins
