CAÑON CITY, Colo. (KRDO) – In the quiet hills of Colorado, the Beacon at Skyline facility offers more than just correctional services—it provides hope, healing, and a chance for incarcerated individuals to reconnect with their families. According to the Colorado Department of Corrections (CDOC), the program uses a human-centered and collaborative approach to support growth, healing, and purpose for its residents.
The Beacon at Skyline houses up to 126 residents at a time. Among them is the father of Hannah and Levi Tinney, who have witnessed the transformative effects the program has had on their family.
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A Program That Rebuilds Families
For Hannah, 17, and Levi, 11, having a father incarcerated for the past ten years hasn’t been easy. However, the family says their bond has grown stronger since their father joined the Beacon Program.
“We feel more like a family now,” Hannah shared. “With this program, I’ve noticed that our dad is happier and more excited about his future. He’s ready to get out and better himself.”
Levi chimed in, expressing pride in his father’s progress. “He’s like a college student in prison. It makes me happy to see him learning and preparing for a better future.”
A Better Visiting Experience
The program doesn’t just focus on the residents—it also creates a more positive environment for visiting families. At previous facilities, Hannah recalls being limited to sitting across a table for hours with minimal interaction.
“At Skyline, it’s different,” she explained. “We can play outside, kick a soccer ball around, and even play Minecraft together. It feels like we’re spending real quality time as a family.”
Challenges Ahead: Potential Relocation
The Beacon Program’s future at Skyline may be uncertain. In the proposed 2025-26 fiscal budget, CDOC recommends relocating and expanding the program to the Four Mile and Rifle correctional facilities.
This potential move has sparked concern among families like the Tinneys, who fear the change could disrupt their father’s progress and increase the physical distance between them.
“Moving him hours away could mean we won’t see him for years,” Levi said. “I don’t want that to happen. It’s hard enough as it is.”
Community Advocacy to Keep the Program Local
Supporters of the Beacon Program at Skyline have launched a petition urging CDOC to keep the facility in its current location. Advocates emphasize the importance of stability for families and the significant progress many residents have made.
CDOC officials assure the public that if the relocation happens, staff at Skyline will collaborate closely with staff at the Rifle and Four Mile facilities to ensure a smooth transition. For now, the move is only a recommendation, with no final decision expected until April 1, 2025.
A Program Worth Preserving
For families like the Tinneys, the Beacon Program is more than a correctional initiative—it’s a lifeline that provides hope for a brighter future. As the debate over its relocation continues, the focus remains on the program’s success in helping residents heal, grow, and reconnect with their loved ones.
