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Nov 27, 2009

"If we can transform ourselves, we have the potential to change the world." -- Laura van Dernoot Lipsky

The Most Successful Rehab Program in the World

Nestling in the shadow of San Francisco's Bay Bridge the Delancey Street Foundation looks more like an upscale Mediterranean resort than a commune for ex-cons. Inside the place is immaculate. This foundation puts hardened criminals in charge of their own recovery and it doesn't take a penny in grant money from the United States government. Instead the residents support themselves -- and each other -- by running a string of businesses including a gourmet restaurant. It is a 500-strong family, and -- much like a normal family -- the punishment for those who step out of line is washing the dishes.