The program operates on a client-specific planning model. Typically, a case developer will spend 30 to 40 hours developing a comprehensive plan for the offender. Emphasis is placed on interagency coordination and postadjudication followup. Offenders may be referred by attorneys or selected from case lists on the basis of specified criteria. To ensure that the program serves as a true alternative, a formula was developed to determine that participants actually are 'prison-bound.' Cases also are reviewed individually by sentencing staff. Of five programs in operation for 3 to 5 years, all are operating effectively, although there is considerable variation among programs. For most programs, courts accept their sentencing plans in about 85 percent of cases; and there has been an equally high rate of successful sentence completion. Two empirical evaluations indicated that the programs are meeting the goal of diverting offenders from prison. Factors that have contributed to the programs' success include mobilization of public and political support, close relationships between the programs and defense attorneys, and aggressive pursuit of appropriate referrals. 2 references.