For 37 Anti-Recidivism Coalition (ARC) participants at CSP-Corcoran, a recent graduation marked a significant step on their path to rehabilitation.
“I want to be your neighbor and for you to be happy about it,” said TJ Wheeler while speaking at the Feb. 7 ceremony.
The participants received Certificates of Completion. Sections of the program included Avatar/Board Preparation, Criminal & Gang Anonymous, and Emotional Intelligence.
Participants of the program are currently housed on Facility 3B, a Non-Designated Programing Facility.
Those attending included fellow graduates, staff, and visitors. The ceremony marked the achievements of those graduating the ARC program at CSP-Corcoran.
Other graduation speakers included Warden (A) T.L. Campbell, ARC Director Jacob Brevard, Senior Life Coach and facilitator David Garnica and Associate Director Woman’s Department N. Cumpian.
During the ceremony, the participants discussed the importance of the program, describing the skills and tools they’ve learned.
Graduate William Tanielian was thankful for the opportunity provided.
“This is my first graduation from anything,” he said. “I care about my future now.”
Garnica said choices matter and it’s important for families to recognize positive choices being made by the program participants.
“None of us were born criminals or gang members,” Garnica said. “Life is about choices.”
Garnica went on to express appreciation to those who showed up to support the graduates and their rehabilitation.
What is ARC?
It is a support network for formerly incarcerated individuals and advocates for criminal justice reform. ARC’s mission is to reduce incarceration, improve the outcomes of formerly incarcerated individuals, and build healthier communities.
Submitted by Lt. Robert Clifton
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