Through pilot locations and programs statewide, the California Model was rolled out in 2023. This groundbreaking effort seeks to enhance public safety through four pillars: Normalization, Peer Mentorship, Becoming a Trauma Informed Organization, and Dynamic Security.
Through each step, staff has been there to help ensure a smooth transition for everyone involved. These are the highlights of the California Model in 2023.
The effort began with state officials visiting Norway, through the Amend program, to learn best practices from successful institutions. (Read a 2019 story on one of the tours.)
Learn more about the California Model on the CDCR website.
Governor, Secretary announce California Model
In March, Governor Gavin Newsom visited San Quentin Rehabilitation Center to announce the bold plan. “Today, we take the next step in our pursuit of true rehabilitation, justice, and safer communities through this evidenced-backed investment, creating a new model for safety and justice — the California Model — that will lead the nation,” Governor Newsom said. (Read the Governor’s Office press release.)
In early April, Secretary Jeff Macomber laid out the plan. “A few weeks ago, I had the honor of joining Governor Newsom as he unveiled the state’s plan to transform the criminal justice system. We were all there to ring in a new era for corrections in California – the California Model,” Macomber wrote at the time. (Read Secretary Macomber’s full California Model message.)
Physically transforming areas of prison
New furniture, cultivating a sense of community to more closely resemble life outside prison, was installed at various institutions. (Read a story published in March.)
Incorporating sports into the California Model
From pickleball to basketball, activities allowed staff and leadership to play games with the incarcerated population. This breaks down barriers, fostering better relationships between staff and the people in their care. These are some of the examples from 2023:
California Medical Facility, Vacaville: See a warden play pickleball with the population.
San Quentin Rehabilitation Center: The first pickleball event at San Quentin.
Mule Creek State Prison, Ione: Physically challenged population included in activities.
Substance Abuse Treatment Facility, Corcoran: Music and hoops.
California Model videos educate public, staff
Part of the effort to incorporate the values of the California Model include educating staff, the population and the public. A series of California Model videos helped get the message across. The effort also includes gathering feedback through a special email.
See how one celebrity is embracing the efforts of the California Model.
The first comprehensive California Model video, narrated by Tessa Outhyse:
Read the stories and watch the videos:
- California Model pillar: Normalization
- California Model pillar: Peer mentorship
- California Model pillar: Trauma Information Organization
Stay tuned in 2024 as more California Model programs are implemented across California.
By Don Chaddock, Inside CDCR editor
Office of Public and Employee Communications
Learn more about the California Model on the CDCR website.
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