Pelican Bay State Prison recently saw two graduations of Building Resilience, a trauma-focused rehabilitation program.
The program helps individuals develop the strength to deal with trauma and face the challenges and stress in their lives.
The Building Resilience course is inspired by the California Model being implemented at eight institutions across the state. While Pelican Bay isn’t one of those institutions, this program aligns with the basic principles of the effort.
The four key pillars of the California Model include dynamic security, normalization, peer support, and becoming a trauma-informed organization.
Building Resilience aims to create a sense of normalcy by promoting positive interactions and recognize the importance of connecting with and supporting one another.
By fostering an atmosphere of compassion, empathy, understanding, participants navigate their past experiences and build resilience for the future.
“I am proud of the dedication and commitment each of the graduates put into this course,” said acting Warden Stephen Smith. “I am sure the Building Resilience program will continue to make a positive impact and create a safer, more supportive environment for all.”
Acting Chief Deputy Warden Michael Betzinger said the program helps with reentry efforts.
“The Building Resilience program can contribute to reducing recidivism by equipping individuals with the skills and mindset needed to avoid returning to harmful behavior patterns, overall,” he said.
Learn more about the California Model on the CDCR website.
Submitted by Lt. Leon Serafin
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