California Rehabilitation Center (CRC) at Norco was invited to host the first carnival event for a special-needs school.
Victress Bower is a school providing services to approximately 68 students with severe and profound special needs. Warden Glen E. Pratt and his team outfitted the school’s park with games and activities. The carnival featured a petting zoo, face painting, bubble exhibit, games, food and treats. The students, or their caregiver, even had an opportunity to “pie” the school’s principal and the CRC warden.
Additionally, Warden Pratt and CRC staff rallied, raising $11,000 to donate to the school. The money will help fund future events and new equipment for the children.
A parent thanked CRC staff for their generosity.
“This was such a beautiful event. I am speechless. CRC, you guys have a heart of gold. Thank you for everything you have done for our kids this year and for your generosity,” the parent said. “It made me a little emotional to see everyone outside walking, enjoying themselves and having such a great time. Best day ever.”
Warden Pratt smiled and simply replied, “Wait until next year. You haven’t seen anything yet.”
Submitted by Lt. Joe Lopez


See more community involvement stories.
Follow CDCR on YouTube, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter). Listen to the CDCR Unlocked podcast.
Related content
Mule Creek staff role up sleeves to donate blood
Mule Creek State Prison recently partnered with Vitalant to host a successful blood drive with staff. This gave employees the…
LAC staff interact with students during Read Across America
Staff from California State Prison, Los Angeles County (LAC), visited young students during Read Across America Week. A local elementary…
CSP‑Corcoran staff, incarcerated walk to fight cancer
California State Prison (CSP) Corcoran hosted the third annual Cancer Walk with staff and the incarcerated raising a record-breaking $12,900…
CMC custody staff find balance on a surfboard
Custody staff from California Men’s Colony (CMC) at San Luis Obispo recently attended an adaptive surf therapy clinic. The April…
CIW staff volunteers for special‑needs prom
Staff volunteers from California Institution for Women (CIW) in Corona helped make a local special-needs prom an unforgettable night. Held…
CAL, CEN attend Fallen Law Enforcement Memorial
The Honor Guard from Calipatria (CAL) and Centinela (CEN) State Prisons participated in the Imperial Valley Law Enforcement Memorial. The…