Rehabilitation News

By Lt. Robert Kelsey, A.A., Public Information Officer, Sierra Conservation Center

Former inmates and those currently serving time are crafting new lives and renewed hope through art.

Sierra Conservation Center’s Art and Healing program brought together 30 inmates to paint two canvas murals, allowing them to explore the themes of “heritage and pride.”

The murals gave inmates a chance to express themselves through art and discussion. It’s a project spearheaded by SCC Community Resource Manager Dameion Renault.

The inmates painted half of the mural, with the remainder to be

painted by a partnering organization.

The program was designed to connect with a community non-profit, Art Miles Mural Project, to create a mural with inmates in the theme of “heritage and pride,” in the way they understand it today.

Over 12 weeks, two canvas murals were painted on the walls within the prison and every week inmates would paint their version of this theme on a 12-foot by 5-foot canvas.

Each session would start with a section doing one-hour of painting. After painting, the inmates would clean up the materials and get ready to discuss a weekly assignment researched the week prior.

The subject matter was chosen by the inmates and was related to heritage and pride. Topics included family trees, success and failure, courage and fear, family and others.

During the planning of the Art and Healing program, a partnership with Home Boy Industries (HBI) was established and a representative from their organization agreed to partner with SCC to paint half of the mural if SCC’s inmates left half of the murals in white.

Los Angeles-based HBI works with former inmates and gang members to re-develop their lives.

The theme of the program is similar to SCC’s, but in a different environment than the inmates still behind the walls of a prison.

After the inmates half-completed their murals, the Art Miles Mural Project will help SCC deliver the art to HBI to complete the painting in the same heritage and pride theme. The former inmates and gang members will paint their themes also as they currently understand them.

Welding and masonry students paint one of the murals.

According to organizers, they become united through the common thread of art.

The murals once completed will be given to Art Miles Mural Project to show to groups around the world.

These two different groups communicated and expressed themselves peacefully while learning more about themselves emotionally, organizers said.

It is often said one never knows the pain other people may be carrying inside.

But sometimes what someone is carrying inside can also be an overwhelming feeling of redemption and pride. Sometimes, you find it where you might not expect it.

One example would be the Resource Fair at Mather co-presented by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) on Sept. 5.

Kevin Benjamin is someone who can attest to the power of change.

“I can’t begin to tell you what it feels like that the people who used to look down on me and kept away from me, respect me today,” he said with a lump in his throat.

Lee Farrand, a Transition Specialist at the Highlands Community Charter School, understands. “He just won class president. He’s a model student,” Farrand said. “He really embodies what we’re striving for.”

Northern California Construction Training was on hand to

help people learn about their services.

Highlands is what Farrand calls a place of last resort. It’s a school for adults who never got their high school diploma, usually because they were on the streets, strung out and doing whatever they could to get their next fix.

Benjamin acknowledges he’s been in and out of prisons or jails the better part of 22 years. He remembers during one of his lowest moments, he rented out the family car to a drug dealer.

“(It was) the car my wife used to drive the kids to school,” he said. The dealer paid in drugs.

The next day, when he realized what he’d done, he “got higher to get rid of the pain” and the shame.

Various agencies were on hand at the resource fair.

Cocaine, heroin, meth – Benjamin tried them all. To pay for his escapism, he graduated from petty thefts to burglaries.

“He finally decided he was tired of it and he needed to make a change,” said Farrand.

His family – especially his daughters, never gave up on him. So when he got clean, sober, and studious – his daughters, straight-A students themselves, not only encouraged him to run for student body president at Highlands, they practically managed his campaign. They helped draw posters and prepped him to give speeches.

Then came Election Day.

“I walked into the house and the first thing my daughter said was, ‘Did you win?’ and when I told her ‘I won’ I could just see her face light up,” Benjamin said. “I can’t explain what it meant to me, because it meant something to her. She was full of pride. I’ve done something in my life that she can brag to her friends about.”

Mather hosted the resource fair.

Change, redemption and vindication are attainable goals, according to providers at the resource fair.

“People deserve a second chance. When they realize that they can earn their GED, when they become employable and find jobs, they support their families and contribute to society. That’s what this is about,” Farrand said.

Bringing together service providers like Farrand with former offenders like Benjamin to take advantage of the resources offered in Sacramento County is rewarding for CDCR Deputy Parole Administrator Marvin Speed.

Covered California was a popular booth at the resource fair.

“Our agents have been working diligently to get the word out about this fair to all of the parolees in our region because we know that their attendance here can really make a difference,” Speed said. “When parolees make the effort to come out and sign up for job training or treatment, their road to becoming a productive member of society becomes much easier.”

At the resource fair, several hundred state parolees and county probationers found help getting a fresh start at also living a productive crime-free life.

Participating employers included Northern California Construction Training, Richer and Associates, Teamsters Local 150, Cement Masons Local 400, Operating Engineers Local 3 and LB Construction.

Recent laws make parolees eligible for federal Medicare programs. The Medicare expansion was promoted as a way to reduce the high cost to taxpayers for inmates’ treatment by providing access to preventative care for at-risk populations. As a result, one of the busiest agencies at the fair was Covered California.

Various employers and trade unions attended the fair.

Other agencies and providers offering crucial services included the WestCare Foundation, Substance Abuse Services Coordinating Agency (SASCA), the Highlands Community Charter School, Ink Off Me, Planned Parenthood, Narcotics Anonymous, Oak House, House of Integrity, Milgard, the Center for Fathers and Families, the Safety Center, Health Care Options, the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence and Health and Fitness Magazine.

The fair was presented by CDCR’s Division of Adult Parole Operations and Division of Rehabilitative Programs in cooperation with the Sacramento Community Based Coalition, and Sacramento County Probation.

Benjamin’s pitch is simple and straightforward.

“I want my friends who are still behind the wall to know that if they want to change, there really is the kind of help they need to start a new life,” said.

By Lt. Brian Davi, A.A., Public Information Officer, Central California Women’s Facility

The Inmate Ward Labor (IWL) has made significant progress with the construction project at the Central California Women’s Facility (CCWF). CDCR Secretary Beard recently visited the construction site.

Secretary Beard and Warden Johnson get an update on the project

from Construction Supervisor II Marty Haight.

Secretary Beard was accompanied by Jay Virbel, Associate Director of Female Institutions. They met with Warden Deborah K. Johnson and Construction Supervisor II Marty Haight.

Secretary Beard toured the EOP job-site and said he was impressed at the progress of the project, and the work ethic the female offenders displayed.

What started as just 7,270 square feet of dirt is transforming into the soon to be Enhanced Outpatient Program (EOP) Treatment Building.

The EOP Building project will provide four mental health treatment rooms, three recreational therapy rooms and office space.

CDCR Secretary Jeffrey Beard, center, recently visited the Central California

Women’s Facility with Associate Director Jay Virbel, left. He was given a

tour by Warden Deborah K. Johnson, right.

The 23 selected participants enrolled in the pre-apprenticeship program. The inmates have been a part of the IWL workforce from the start of the project and have attained the knowledge and skills required for employment opportunities in the building trade industry upon parole.

By Lt. Matthew Osborn, A.A., Public Information Officer, Valley State Prison

On Saturday, Aug. 30, Valley State Prison (VSP) held its first Summer Rehabilitation Special Event.

This one-day event was organized by the Self Awareness and Recovery (SAR) Inmate Leisure Time Activity Group (ILTAG) to represent the recovery efforts of all such groups.

It was designed to bring unity within the community and the institution, according to organizers. More than 150 inmates attended over the course of two sessions.

Participants take part in the first Summer Rehabilitation Event at Valley State Prison.

The agenda included guest speakers, inmate testimonies, band performances and staff presentations as well as agency booths.

The SAR program was created at Mule Creek State Prison in Ione in 2006. It was born out of a passion for deeper sense of recovery after spending numerous hours in a variety of self-help groups. It was through the testimonies of their peers, SAR inmate founders saw a need to help offenders gain a deeper sense of awareness into the core issues fueling an offender’s addictive and criminal behavior.

The SAR program is intended to provide an emotional outlet for participants to learn and speak about the root causes of their destructive lifestyles. It’s meant to help offenders and their families find healing in their personal lives.

There were over 25 volunteers who came to VSP for this event as community agencies which have helped to create VSP’s successful programs.

Participants listen to a guest speaker.

The event also offered a day to honor victims. It offered inmates who have made serious positive changes in their lives an opportunity to reflect on mistakes made, relationships harmed, victims created and fatherless children left behind.

It was a day for inmates to be accountable and responsible for their destructive behaviors as well as for the inmates to describe who they are, what they have learned, what they have been through and where they are headed.

Inmates said the event offered them a chance to let go of the traumatic experiences governing their destructive lifestyles by allowing their higher power to cleanse their spirits from malice, madness, envy, greed, hate, racism, narcissism, and other destructive thoughts which may lead to criminal behavior, addiction, victimization or the destruction of human relationships.

It offered a day to pay tribute to inmates who are living examples of hope and recovery. Inmates remembered all those who died in their addictions, remembered the pain and agony caused to their mothers, and of resentments toward their fathers.

Inmates were able to fellowship and say thank you to peers, facilitators, staff sponsors and staff administrators. Inmates paid respect to all the prison advocacy groups, guests, religious leaders, program directors, drug counselors and supporters of social change.

Warden Ron Davis said he was impressed by the event.

“The effort put forth by everyone associated with Inmate Leisure Time Activity Groups continues to be remarkable, which is evident by the event that has taken place here,” he said. “I want to thank them for their hard work and dedication to such an honorable cause.”

By Vincent Thompson, Parole Administrator, Los Angeles Central Parole District

Young parolees are getting a jump start on their new lives thanks to a partnership between the Division of Adult Parole Operations (DAPO) and a charitable organization.

On Sept. 10, job counselors from the Los Angeles Urban League conducted a recruitment event at the Parole Complex in Los Angeles to recruit parolees for the Urban Youth Empowerment Program Works.

Participating CDCR departments included DAPO Southern Region, Los Angeles Central and the Mid-City Parole Districts. The parolees who benefited were between 18 and 24 years old, according to organizers.

Seventeen of the 39 parolees who attended, enrolled in the program. The parolees received information on receiving assistance with employment, vocational training (referrals) and/ or aid with education.

The Los Angeles Urban League provides monetary assistance and stipends to individuals who are enrolled in the program. The Urban Youth Empowerment Program Works assists young adults to become self-sufficient and change lives.

Parolees who enrolled in the program were given gift cards by DAPO as incentives for positive behaviors to encourage change.

The recruitment was eyed as a success due to the partnership developed between program director Willa Robinson, Parole Administrators Vincent Thompson and John Bent. There was also coordination by District Administrator Assistant Kandice Shaw, the supervisors and agents in the districts who coordinated with the parolees to attend the event.

By Joe Orlando, CDCR Public Information Officer

Dozens of youth offenders at the N.A. Chaderjian Youth Correctional Facility (NACYCF) took the first step toward re-entry by attending a job fair.

Youth were able to check out potential employment opportunities and listen to speakers during a recent resource fair.

The event at the Stockton facility allowed the youth offenders to learn about employment possibilities when they move back to their communities.

“This event is important to educate, empower, and inform the youth about the resources that have existed for many years in their communities as well as to have them speak to these providers themselves, prior to being discharged, so they they can establish a relationship with these organizations and companies willing to help,” said DaiNette Bowens, NACYCF Re-entry Coordinator.

She said having a strong re-entry program is vital to the success of the youth to ensure every young offender who leaves the Division of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) has a plan to connect them to viable resources and opportunities in the community and help them to maintain a lower risk to re-offend and pursue positive life goals.

“Ms. Bowens, if I knew all these resources existed in my community before I got locked up, I don’t think I would be here since there is help out there, and I can’t believe how many programs are out there,” said Nick, a youth offender.

Youth learn about options available to them after release.

“This is my third time attending this event,” said Victor, another offender. “There are a lot of resources here. I’ve come a long way. These people really do want to help us out.”

A number of vendors were available to discuss their organizations and explain what they can offer to potential employees.

Among those in attendance were Stockton Employment Development Department, the Consulate General of Mexico in Sacramento, Fathers and Families of San Joaquin, Fresno Local Conservation Corps, Rites of Passage (Oakland), San Joaquin WorkNet, Civic Corps of Oakland, and the California Human Development Farm Workers Youth Program.

Edgar, also an offender, said he has obtained his forklift certification, and was using the various agencies represented to hopefully line up a job in a warehouse when he’s released.

“I’ve gained confidence through job skills learned here,” Edgar said. “Now I just need to take advantage of the services available today to line up a job down the road.”

The youth also had the opportunity to sign up for Resolution Workshops, such as the Immigration Clinic Workshop and Foster Care Workshop.

The Division of Juvenile Justice provides education and treatment to California’s youthful offenders up to the age of 25 who have the most serious criminal backgrounds and most intense treatment needs.

Most juvenile offenders today are committed to county facilities in their home community where they can be closer to their families and local social services that are vital to rehabilitation, according to officials.

By Joe Orlando, CDCR Public Information Officer

Sept. 25 was a national day of remembrance of murder victims.

At the State Capitol, youth from the N.A. Chaderjian Youth Correctional Facility (NACYCF) and the O.H. Close Youth Correctional Facility (OHCYCF) donated their time and money to put on the event. The two youth correctional facilities raised more than $1,000.

Misty Foster, President of the Sacramento Chapter of Parents of Murdered Children, said the donated funds made the event possible.

Near the Capitol steps, they set up tables, chairs and over 100 victim posters to remember the victims. It’s a good chance for the offenders to remember those they’ve hurt along the way, and to give back to an event that is held throughout the United States on this day, according to officials.

Youth offenders and correctional staff helped set up

the Day to Remember event at the Capitol.

Rehabilitation is vital for offenders of all ages, but critical for these young men who have a lifetime ahead of them to right their wrongs. This is the sixth year performing this restorative justice project.

Leading up to the event, the youth spent time talking about their crimes, and discussing what they could do to make sure they correct their mistakes, take responsibility and take steps to ensure a positive and productive future.

Emotions run deep for the families of victims, and also for those who have committed the crimes.

Denial, anger, guilt, fear, physical distress, loss of innocence, loneliness, and depression are just some of the things families, friends, and those guilty of the crimes must deal with every day, according to those close to the project.

By Lt. Arnel Bona, A.A., Public Information Officer
Deuel Vocational Institution

Muslims, Catholics, Native Americans and those of the Jewish faith gathered recently to promote harmony inside the walls of the Deuel Vocational Institution (DVI).

Warden Jerome Price and the chaplains of the four religious denominations at DVI led 100 participants of staff and inmates in inspirational talks, songs, meditations and music with a focus on tolerance on Aug. 13.

From left, Muslim Chaplain Imam Mikhail Muslim, Native American Chaplain Mike Herman,

Jewish Chaplain Rabbi E.J. Klein, Warden Jerome Price and

Catholic Chaplain Deacon Edwin Santiago recently

gathered for the second Interfaith Day of Prayer.

This is the second Interfaith Day of Prayer organized by the Chaplains at DVI. Last year’s event focused on the theme of peace and was attended by over 80 participants.

Next year’s Interfaith Day of Prayer will be focused on forgiveness.

Many inmates have voiced gratitude over these events, saying they reduce tension and foster acceptance among different ethnic and religious groups at the institution, according to officials.

Jewish Chaplain Rabbi Klein, Native American Chaplain Mike Herman, Muslim Chaplain Imam Mikhail Muslim and Catholic Chaplain Deacon Santiago were joined by readings from Rastafarian representatives and inspirational soul music by DVI’s own The Second Chance Band.

DVI Warden Jerome Price speaks during the Interfaith Day of Prayer.

By Lt. Brian Davi, A.A., Public Information Officer
Central California Women’s Facility

With Associate of Arts degrees in hand, 38 inmates at the Central California Women’s Facility (CCWF) shucked off their pasts and took steps to a much brighter future.

Families clutched inmate-designed ceremony programs while educational administrators and graduates offered inspirational speeches during a recent ceremony.

“Your past does not represent your future,” she said. “Each of you has opportunities to improve yourself, your families, community and especially your children.”

The CCWF graduating class of 2014 comprises 38 inmates

who received Associate of Arts degrees.

Faculty from Feather River College, based out of the University of California, Merced, awarded the AA Degrees in front of the graduates’ friends, family, teachers and CCWF administrators during the Sept. 5 ceremony.

Warden Johnson congratulated the class of 2014 for stepping up against the odds of being incarcerated and taking the positive step toward being role models at CCWF. She also lauded dedication to challenge their minds to become future educated members of society upon release.

Since 2009, CCWF has graduated approximately 150 inmates with AA degrees from Feather River College or Coastline College.

According to officials, many of the graduates are the first in their families to receive a college degree.

For many graduates, this AA degree represents the first step in their life-changing endeavors as many said they want to continue to further their education.

Vice Principal Jennifer Baldwin speaks to Facility A and Facility B inmates receiving vocational completion certificates, GED certificates, and high school diplomas at California Correctional Center.

By Lt. Yvonne “Chrissy” Hackler, A.A., Public Information Officer
California Correctional Center

Two graduation ceremonies marked new chapters in the lives of dozens of inmates.

California Correctional Center (CCC) Facilities A, B and C inmates donned caps and gowns to receive their high school diplomas and GED certificates. Meanwhile, others received vocational completion certificates.

Isaiah Duperroir, an inmate who received his GED, said he took pride in his accomplishment.

“It was a proud moment for my family, too, as they were here (to witness the ceremony),” he said.

Vice Principal Jennifer Baldwin speaks to Facility A and Facility B inmates

receiving vocational completion certificates, GED certificates, and

high school diplomas at California Correctional Center.

Duperroir said getting an education has given him another chance in life. He is now enrolled in college and intends to continue his education.

During the Facility C graduation ceremony, Warden Robert Gower commended them on their accomplishments.

“Receiving a GED, high school diploma or vocational training in the prison environment is no easy task. Take this accomplishment as beginning and know that the future is what you make of it,” he told the graduates.

The warden urged them to continue making positive strides.

“Build upon what you have started. We offer college programs and other trade programs that can benefit you,” he said. “Your teachers and families are here today to share this accomplishment but no one wants to see you stop the momentum. Continue to gain the much needed tools for your successful reentry into society.”

The Sept. 19 ceremonies featured speakers, including Principal Richard Tice, Vice Principal Jennifer Baldwin, Warden Robert Gower, Chief Deputy Warden Georgia Johas-Darnell and guest speaker Lassen Community College Vice President Dr. Tammy Robinson.

By the numbers

Vocational completion certificates: 29 inmates
GED certificates: 28 inmates
High school diplomas: 2 inmates

Did you know?

There are currently 182 CCC inmates enrolled at Lassen Community College, Feather River College and Coastline College. During the 2013/2014 fiscal year, 148 inmates earned GED certificates and another 20 earned high school diplomas from Earl Warren Adult School at CCC.

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By Lt. James Herrera, A.A., Public Information Officer
California Rehabilitation Center

A California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation warden is rallying community support to help the institution focus on the “R” in CDCR.

California Rehabilitation Center Warden Cynthia Y. Tampkins recently spoke to Pitzer College and focused her talk on rehabilitative programs.

CRC Warden Cynthia Tampkins speaks during a lecture at Pitzer College.

Pitzer College is a private residential liberal arts college in Claremont. Each week during the fall semester, the college’s Institute of Global and Local Action and Study hosts a guest lecture series.

Warden Tampkins was the featured speaker Sept. 30. More than 150 students and faculty sat in the McConnell Founders Center to listen.

The warden spoke about the challenges of running a state prison in California.

Warden Cynthia Tampkins, center, held a round-table

discussion with college administrators and professors.

Warden Tampkins illustrated the need for rehabilitative programs.

She issued a call to action for all who wish to be part of changing lives in prison through rehabilitation.

At the conclusion of her lecture, many engaged audience members asked questions about the classification process and inmate access to care and services.

Warden Tampkins ended her time at Pitzer College at a round-table discussion which included college administration and professors. The discussion focused on continuing efforts to offer Pitzer College courses to the CRC inmate population.

“We are working collaboratively with Pitzer College to bring a higher education to CRC’s inmates,” said Warden Tampkins. “I am honored to know my presentation moved students and faculty to continue in this endeavor.”

Learn more about California Rehabilitation Center at: http://www.cdcr.ca.gov/Facilities_Locator/CRC.html

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By Lt. Jackie Fernandez, A.A., Public Information Officer
California State Prison, Los Angeles County

Inmates are helping rescue dogs learn to become “good citizens” through a training program at California State Prison, Los Angeles County (CSP-LAC).

The inmates met Marmaduke the gentle giant, a 100-pound Anatolian Shepherd mix.

Shown with his former trainers, returning Paw for Life graduate Rendell, a 2-year-old boxer mix, was excited to be back at California State Prison, Los Angeles County.

In late September, 10 Karma Rescue dogs arrived at the prison for the second round of the volunteer-run Paws for Life (PFL) program.

The program, which operates as an Inmate Leisure Time Activity Group (ILTAG), affords valuable life-skills training to inmates participating in the program and provides a means by which dogs are trained and adopted to the community, according to those involved.

Shown with his former trainers, returning Paw for Life graduate Rendell, a 2-year-old

boxer mix, was excited to be back at California State Prison, Los Angeles County.

Each dog is trained to pass the “Canine Good Citizen Test.”

Warden John Soto and Chief Deputy Warden Gary Biaggini visited the Lancaster Animal Shelter with a special delivery of doggie sweaters and jackets donated by Karma Rescue. The sweaters and jackets will be of great need in the upcoming winter months as temperatures drop to below freezing levels in the Antelope Valley.

To learn more about the program, read our earlier story here: http://www.insidecdcr.ca.gov/2014/08/california-state-prison-los-angeles-county-holds-its-first-paws-for-life-graduation-ceremony/

Follow CDCR on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/cacorrections; on Twitter at https://twitter.com/cacorrections; and YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/user/CACorrections

From left, Warden John Soto, Karma Rescue Volunteer Susan Willis,

Chief Deputy Warden Gary Biaggini and Lancaster Animal Shelter Manager S. Koenig

posed for a quick snapshot with the group’s donation to the shelter.

By Dana Simas, CDCR Public Information Officer

The Solano Community College District Governing Board approved last night a first-of-its-kind agreement with the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) to provide college credit courses to qualifying inmates at California State Prison-Solano.

The inmates will receive instruction from faculty at Solano Community College.

This is the first agreement between CDCR and a California community college since Governor Jerry Brown signed Senate Bill 1391 last month.

SB 1391 allows California community colleges to receive full funding for course instruction offered on-site in state prisons and will expand the courses offered to inmates.

“It’s an investment not only in the individual offender, but in public safety as a whole,” said Millicent Tidwell, Director of CDCR’s Division of Rehabilitative Programs. “The vast majority of inmates will eventually return to our communities. We have an obligation to society to return them better prepared to deal with life’s challenges than when they came in to prison.”

Previously, college courses at most California prisons were only available to inmates through digital recordings and distance learning. SB 1391 will now fund college courses to be taught directly inside the prisons.

To supplement the distance-learning model, CDCR’s Voluntary Education Program has been providing instructors to offer tutoring, test-proctoring, guidance, and access to used textbooks in prison libraries to help inmate-students with their course work.

Providing inmates with education, both academic and career technical education, is key to giving inmates the best shot of finding employment and being successful in their transition back into society.

“The District is excited to teach courses to Solano County prison inmates,” said Dr. Jowel C. Laguerre, SCC Superintendent-President. “Education is the key to unlocking one’s future, therefore, it is Solano Community College’s responsibility to respond and deliver services to those who want to improve their future opportunities. Being a part of the solution to reduce recidivism in individuals currently serving time, but will one day rejoin society – is our business.”

While state and local authorities are taking measures to prevent people from committing crimes and being sent to prison in the first place, CDCR is committed to doing what it can to prevent inmates from re-offending and returning to prison after their release.

Inmates enrolled in college courses pay for the tuition and supplies through either a Board of Governor’s Fee Waiver or friends and family. Tuition is not paid through the CDCR budget.

As of July 2014, CDCR had 6,855 inmates enrolled in college courses and approximately 41,000 enrolled in Adult Basic Education courses who are working to obtain their high school diploma or general education degree.

Some colleges, such as Chaffey College in Rancho Cucamonga and Patten University in Oakland, have been sending volunteer instructors to provide classroom-based college courses and assistance to inmates for years. Before the passage of SB 1391, these colleges were not compensated for providing the instruction.

CDCR currently partners with over 27 nationally recognized, accredited college programs statewide. CDCR will continue to work with California Community Colleges to bring similar agreements to prisons statewide.

Photos & Story by Krissi Khokhobashvili, CDCR Public Information Officer

Memorable moments were recounted, tears were shed and there were enough hugs for everyone as dozens of women came together for a reunion unlike any other.

The women are all former offenders who served the end of their sentences at Casa Aurora, a Female Rehabilitative Community Correctional Center (FRCCC) in Bakersfield.

FRCCC, a program of the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, is a small, 75-bed, community-based facility jointly operated by CDCR and Mental Health Services (MHS), Inc.

Current residents of Casa Aurora painted a mural for the reunion, which had the theme “RSVP: Recovering Sistahs on a Vigorous Path.”

At Casa Aurora, women with 36 months or less to serve in custody participate in rehabilitative programming focused on preparing them for successful returns to their communities.

And there have been many successes. At the reunion, held during Casa Aurora’s fifth year of existence, women spoke of their experiences finding jobs, staying clean and sober and reuniting with their families.

“I couldn’t be the woman I am today if I hadn’t spent the time I spent at Casa Aurora,” said Sarah Hallam, now a full-time student. “As much as I’m thankful for every staff member who worked with me, I’m thankful for the ability to learn that I could do it on my own, and that I was worth it.”

While there are correctional officers and security gates, and the women do not leave the premises, Casa Aurora feels more like a home than anything else.

The walls are decorated with peaceful artwork created by the residents, and a bright, open visiting room creates an inviting space for families to spend time together. The day before the reunion, a group of women baked colorful cupcakes for the alumnae.

“This place is great,” one resident said. “It’s great for us. They help us change our ways – change for the better.”

Programming is centered on strength-based, trauma-informed treatment, including substance abuse education, parenting skills training, education services/GED preparation, job readiness services and domestic violence counseling.

Casa Aurora can house up to 84 women, enabling both custody and counseling staff to interact with women on a deeper level.

“I think it’s important that we treat them with respect, and that they feel they are respected,” said Relief Sergeant Collis Cason.

In addition to thanking Casa Aurora staff, each woman who spoke at the reunion thanked fellow residents for helping her along the road to recovery. This is the third time alumnae have gathered in Bakersfield for this event.

“I want to thank you and the entire MHS and CDCR staff for all that you did to assist me in arriving at the place I am today,” said Maria Blair, an alumnae who is now an administrative assistant and a resident manager in a sober-living home. “I will be forever grateful for the kindness, trust education and humanity that you and the staff offered me.”

Kim Bond, President of MHS, said seeing the successful women at the reunion reminded her of the early days of Casa Aurora, and how much the program has grown and developed over the last five years.

“Getting to be there the very first day, when the first woman came into Casa Aurora, it truly was a dream come true,” she remembered. “That women were going to be served in a way that women deserve to be served – with all of our needs met, reuniting with your families and giving us real hope that we can change.”

Employment Development Counselor Angela Brown, who organized the reunion, encouraged the alumnae to not only continue helping themselves, but also to help other women going through struggles.

“We’ve always got to keep reaching our hand down and helping someone,” she said. “If you see someone going the wrong way, you’re obligated to help that person. You’re obligated to talk to them … because you’re part of Casa Aurora. And what we do is we keep reaching out and we keep helping, and we keep pushing people up.”

For photo gallery, visit: http://www.insidecdcr.ca.gov/2014/10/reunited-rehabilitated-casa-aurora-alumnae-celebrate-successes/

By Lt. Denise Ding, A.A., Public Information Officer
Mule Creek State Prison

Student inmates earned GED certificates, vocational certificates or college degrees during a recent graduation ceremony at Mule Creek State Prison’s (MCSP) Creekside Adult School.

Two ceremonies, held Sept. 19 and 26, were attended by friends, families and staff of the inmates to recognize the 95 students’ accomplishments.

CDCR Superintendent of Education Brant Choate hands out diplomas and certificates.

Brant Choate, California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation Superintendent of Education, and Shannon Swain, CDCR Deputy Chief Superintendent of Education, were guest speakers. According to those who attended, the students were “inspired to set and reach for even higher goals.”

Prison Warden Joe A. Lizarraga said education is important for the futures of the inmates.

“An education opens the door to countless opportunities. An education expands your possibilities. But most importantly, an education provides you with a sense of accomplishment,” he told the graduates. “Remember this feeling of accomplishment and strive to duplicate it every day.”

MCSP Warden Joe A. Lizarraga speaks during the graduation.

Diplomas and certificates were presented by MCSP’s Superintendent of Correctional Education Programs, Russ Harris, along with the dignitaries in attendance.

This year’s graduating class consisted of one student earning a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Science degree, one student who earned a Master of Divinity, and numerous students who earned Associate of Arts degrees.

Sixty-nine GED certificates were and 19 vocational certificates were also awarded during the two-day event.

Nearly 100 inmate students achieved educational milestones during a recent ceremony at Mule Creek State Prison.

By Christopher Acosta, A.A., Public Information Officer
Pelican Bay State Prison

Some inmates have taken their education seriously at Pelican Bay State Prison (PBSP), earning them tools to help them someday ease back into society.

Inmate J. Ramsey earned his high school diploma.

Tsunami Adult School at PBSP recently held a graduation ceremony.

Four inmates earned their Associate of Arts (A.A.) degree and one inmate earned his high school diploma at PBSP.

They were presented their certificates in front of facilitators, co-leaders, a guest and PBSP Warden Clark Ducart. Two of the inmates are housed in our Security Housing Unit (SHU), and the other three are housed in our General Population Facilities.

Inmate M. Butler, earned his A.A. in general studies-social and behavioral studies.

He’s flanked by Dr. Joann Parkins, left, and Warden Clark Ducart.

Inmate D. Green earned his A.A. in general studies-social and behavioral studies.

On his left is Dr. Joan Parkins, with Feather River College. At his right is Warden Clark Ducart.

Inmate S. Conner earned his second A. A. in general studies-social and behavioral studies, at left, and J. Santa Cruz earned his A.A. liberal arts-art and humanities, both while housed in the Security Housing Unit. They are flanked by, from left, Dr. Joan Parkins with Feather River College, PBSP Warden Clark Ducart and school Principal Valerie Anderson.

Thirty inmates took part in a non-violence workshop.

By Lt. Roland Ramon, A.A., Public Information Officer
Correctional Training Facility

In Soledad, 30 inmates delved deep into the legacy of someone known for his work in the nonviolent civil rights movement.

In early October, the inmates at the Correctional Training Facility in Soledad continued the legacy of the late Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., by participating in a two-day introductory workshop in “Kingian Nonviolence Conflict Reconciliation.”

The training, led by Kazu Haga and Theresa Guy Moran of the Oakland-based East Point Peace Academy, was developed by some of Dr. King’s closest allies and has been used to bring about cultures of peace in prisons, schools and other institutions around the world.

Over the two-day workshop, the inmates were led through a series of activities including role playing, lectures, small group work and readings to learn about the principles of nonviolence and the study on the nature of conflict.

“Conflict is neutral. Fighting, yelling, violence – those things are not conflicts, they are things that happen when you mismanage a conflict,” said Haga. “If we learn how to respond better to conflict, just as likely an outcome is a lesson learned or a strengthened relationship. Nonviolence is the art, study and practice of responding to conflict in healthy ways.”

Haga hopes this is one of many workshops.

“Working in partnership with the CDCR, East Point hopes to continue these workshops as a way to continue to lessen the violence and increase the peace,” Haga said.

By Mike Roots, Superintendent
Pine Grove Youth Conservation Camp

One young offender is going from the fire lines to the oil fields, earning a paycheck and reclaiming his life.

Evan Wells, 22, knew jobs would be difficult to find after being discharged from Pine Grove Youth Conservation Camp, but he was determined to have a plan. Wells served 11 months as a firefighter at the camp, battling notable blazes such as the King and Sands fires.

Wells told Case Manager Bob Conrad he was interested in moving to North Dakota with his father and working in the oil fields upon his release to probation.

With information from the youth’s father, Conrad recommended probation allow him to go to North Dakota. If it fell through, the backup plan was to have Wells return to Bakersfield with his step-mother.

Young offender Evan Wells, 22, went through an online video job interview, thanks to the help and support of Case Manager Bob Conrad (who is watching in the background).

The oil company offered video conference job interviews for potential employees who were out of state.

Conrad called the company and made arrangements for Wells to interview for a job, with the video interview taking place at camp. Although nervous, he interviewed well, according to Conrad.

After the interview, Conrad followed up with a phone call to the probation officer assigned to Wells. He wanted to let him know of the interview and the possibility of Wells getting housing via the company if he got the job as an oil rigger.

This information was passed along in hopes the judge would grant probation to North Dakota. Through the hard work of Conrad, the judicial system and probation officer, Evan Wells landed a job and departed for a brighter future.

As of this writing, the employer is finalizing housing in North Dakota while Wells is coordinating with his probation officer to make the transfer.

Did you know?

Pine Grove Youth Conservation Camp is the oldest continuously operating fire camp in the country, founded in 1945.

What were they up to over the summer?

See the work of Pine Grove Youth Conservation Camp firefighters over the summer in this previous story at http://www.insidecdcr.ca.gov/gallery/pine-grove-youth-conservation-camp-firefighters-have-busy-season/

Camp to turn 70 in 2015

In 2010, the camp marked 65 years with a big bash. Read about it at http://www.insidecdcr.ca.gov/2010/03/pine-grove-camp-celebrates-65th-birthday-with-a-community-open-house/

By Lt. Ignacio Rivera, A.A., Public Information Officer
and Stephanie Lacie, Correctional Counselor California City Correctional Facility

California City Correctional Facility (CAC), with the collaboration of Phoenix House, held its first graduation ceremony for the inaugural set of inmates to complete the Phoenix House Substance Abuse Treatment Program.

California City Correctional Facility Administration (back row, from left) are Capt. Joseph Ryan, Chief Deputy Warden Richard Anti, Warden David Long, Correctional Counselor Patricia Taylor, Correctional Counselor Christine Dale, Vice Principal Roxanna Nessi and Principal Dan Macedo. In the front row are graduating inmates.

Phoenix House is a 150-day CBI-Substance Abuse Treatment program in which the clients are taught various skills to promote their success in the community upon their release from custody.

The ceremony was held in September.

In addition to substance abuse treatment, the clients are provided both anger management and parenting. It is CAC and California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation hope the graduates take these skills and apply them in everyday life. The graduation ceremony contained skits, singing and dancing, and poetry readings.

Correctional Counselor Stephanie Lacy and Warden David Long addressed the graduates with words of encouragement. CAC executive staff, as well as the respective Correctional Counselors attended the ceremony for each of the housing units.

From left are Phoenix House Instructor Beverly Manns, inmate participants,

Phoenix House Instructor Jason Hruby and another inmate.

Eighty-eight of the original ninety-six participants were able to complete the curriculum-based program, and received certificates of completion of Anger Management, Parenting and Substance Abuse Treatment.

Story and photos by
Lt. Marlaina Dernoncourt, AA/Public Information Officer
California State Prison, Solano

Bill Glass Ministries recently held a “Day of Champions” event at California State Prison, Solano, drawing athletes, entertainers and musicians.

One of those athletes was retired NFL wide receiver J.D. Hill. He played for the Buffalo Bills (1971-75) and the Detroit Lions (1976-77), but on a recent Saturday, he found himself instead delivering a message of redemption to inmates at CSP-Solano.

The prison ministry, now known as Champions for Life, seeks to turn around the lives of inmates, putting them on a path to a brighter future.

Retired NFL player J.D. Hill speaks to inmates at CSP-Solano.

Since 1972, Bill Glass and his crew of volunteers have been visiting prisons across the U.S. to promote a message of hope.

Through the event, the ministry volunteers showcase their talents to help establish their credibility with the inmates, which “goes along with their portrayal of the gospel message,” the organization’s website states.

Toward the end of the presentation, “volunteers move in … and engage inmates in a dialogue about the gospel. Teammates use (the ministry’s) ‘What do you think?’ tract to discuss how the gospel impacts the believer’s life.”

Attendance to the event is not mandatory.

The Champions for Life event was held Oct. 25. Most of the events are held during a single Saturday and provide the backbone of the more than 60 events scheduled each year for the ministry.

Glass is no stranger to a challenge. The former NFL defensive player competed for 11 seasons, retiring in 1969, the same year he founded his ministry.

Glass said a board member for his organization kept badgering him to take his message into prisons.

A juggler on a tall unicycle performs for the inmates on a recent Saturday.

“I kept resisting. I was frightened that I wouldn’t fit in with street kids and gangsters in prison,” Glass posted on his website.

After overcoming his fears, he saw dramatic results. “I was thrown into it kicking and screaming, but the response from the inmates was just unbelievable,” Glass wrote.

He has spent much of the last 40 years taking his message ‘behind the walls.’ He has taken along other pro athletes, champion weight lifters, magicians, tight-rope walkers – as well as race cars, stunt planes, motorcycles, and just about anything or anyone else – to draw prisoners out for a message of hope and deliverance.

He said he discovered prison inmates are just like everyone else: They will listen to what an athlete has to say.

A musician performs for a Bill Glass Champions for Life event at CSP-Solano.

Editor’s note: Some websites may not open from a CDCR computer.

Learn more about Bill Glass Champions for Life at http://www.billglass.org/

Who is Bill Glass?
■He was a member of the 1964 Cleveland Browns team who beat the Baltimore Colts to win the NFL World Championship two years prior to the first Super Bowl.
■Four-time All Pro and College and Texas Sports Hall of Fame are some of his athletic credentials.
■He played for the Detroit Lions from 1958 to 1961 and finished his career with the Cleveland Browns, retiring in 1969.

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