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.
