POPS, which originated at George Washington University, is committed to the reduction of prison overcrowding. The objective is to identify through background investigations older inmates who pose little or no risk of recidivism and help procure their early release.

Students volunteer as caseworkers and lobbyists. Caseworkers conduct thorough investigations into the prisoner's history by interviewing the prisoner, reviewing the prison records, searching past criminal and medical histories, and contacting crime victims.

Lobbyists research and help implement legislation in North Carolina that is consistent with the goals of POPS.

Through active participation, POPSs is instrumental in the reduction of prison overcrowding and in saving the taxpayers' money.