Week in Review: October 4, 2024

October 4, 2024

In this Week in Review for October 4: San Quentin Rehabilitation Center hosts California Model luncheon; California Correctional Institution Honor Guard attends festival; and three questions with Yvette Gutiérrez, Parole Agent II supervisor.

Division of Rehabilitative Programs

Butte reentry learns from fish hatchery visit

Butte reentry program participants took part in an outing others would probably take for granted: visiting a fish hatchery.

The Butte County Male Community Reentry Program in Oroville serves multiple northern California counties. These include Colusa, Glenn, Nevada, Placer, Sutter, Tehama, and Yuba.

Visit Inside CDCR to read the full story.

Visit the CDCR website to learn more about the Male Community Reentry Program.

Staff Spotlight

3 Questions with Yvette Gutiérrez, Parole Agent II supervisor

Parole Agent II supervisor Yvette Gutiérrez

Yvette Gutiérrez, Division of Adult Parole Operations Parole Agent II supervisor, joins communities across the nation in celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month.

What are some of your favorite ways to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month?

One of my favorite ways is by attending local celebrations and events. These gatherings recognize the independence of several countries, including Mexico and El Salvador, and provide a wonderful opportunity to experience diverse traditions, cuisines, arts, music, and performances. I also appreciate how these festivals support local Hispanic businesses, enriching our community.

How important is representation in the department to you?

Representation is crucial to me. I believe having a diverse staff brings unique perspectives to enhance our ability to engage with the community. When we have individuals from various backgrounds, we can serve and communicate more effectively with the populations we work with. This diversity fosters understanding and connection, which is vital in our roles.

Which elements of Hispanic Heritage Month do you believe are often overlooked?

I often feel the vast diversity within Hispanic cultures gets overlooked. Smaller countries like Costa Rica, Nicaragua, and Chile don’t receive the same recognition as larger nations. By acknowledging the contributions and traditions of these smaller nations, we can create a more inclusive celebration of Hispanic heritage. It’s important to highlight the richness of all cultures that fall under the Hispanic umbrella.

Visit the CDCR website to learn more about Government Alliance on Race and Equity.

In Our Institutions

Prison Palooza at California Medical Facility

California Medical Facility staff, community organizations, and the incarcerated population recently gathered for Prison Palooza 3.0.

“We had a lot more staff, people from the community and incarcerated folks who heard about it from last year who wanted to participate this year,” said Lt. Priscilla Gonzalez, public information officer. “So, it was cool to have that many people see what we did and want to be a part of it.”

Visit Inside CDCR to read the full story.

Avenal State Prison 2024 health fair

Avenal State Prison recently held its annual staff health fair. Combining with health benefits open enrollment, the event featured organizations such as Aflac, Butler’s Uniform, Savings Plus, the California Correctional Supervisors Organization (CCSO), Costco, FAST Credit Union, and Kaiser Permanente.

The fair offered a vibrant atmosphere, with colorful banners and booths overflowing with brochures and knowledgeable representatives. Attendees enjoyed freshly baked goods from Eleventh Avenue Bakery and a savory taco platter, all while lively music enhanced the festive spirit.

As the event ended, staff left with valuable health information, ready to make informed decisions about their well-being. The fair underscored Avenal’s commitment to investing in employee health and wellness.

Visit CDCR’s Office of Employee Wellness webpage to learn more.

CDCR Unlocked

Understanding Hypervigilance

Office of Employee Wellness staff takes a dive into hypervigilance, its purpose, causes and how it impacts mental and emotional well-being in our personal and professional lives.

Visit RSS.com to listen to the full podcast.

Observances

CDCR represents at Native American Day

CDCR recruiters and Native American spiritual leaders were on hand to answer questions and take part in the 57th annual Native American Day at the Capitol.

Community Resources Manager Martina Virrey, with CDCR’s Office of Policy Standardization, pitched in to help the Specialized Recruitment Unit at CDCR’s booth.

Visit Inside CDCR to read the full story.

California Model

San Quentin hosts California Model lunch for staff, population

San Quentin Rehabilitation Center held a groundbreaking California Model luncheon Sept. 23, marking a significant step in collaboration between staff and the incarcerated community. This first-of-its-kind event aimed to address challenges faced by San Quentin during its transformational change.

The luncheon featured brainstorming sessions to encourage open dialogue and interactive problem-solving. Participants shared insights and worked together to develop innovative solutions, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in rehabilitation.

By uniting local staff and incarcerated individuals, San Quentin demonstrated its commitment to fostering a supportive environment prioritizing engagement and empowerment. The event set a positive precedent for future initiatives aimed at facilitating change within the facility.

Visit the CDCR website to learn more about the California Model.

Visit Inside CDCR to read the full story.

Upward Mobility

Antronne Scotland has been assigned as Deputy Director of Field Operations, Corrections Services for California Correctional Health Care Services (CCHCS).

California Correctional Health Care Services

Peer Support Specialists Bret Moore and Jose Ayala: Inspiring journeys of transformation

Peer Support Specialists Bret Moore and Jose Ayala: Inspiring journeys of transformation
Bret Moore and Jose Ayala are making significant strides in their lives after incarceration, showcasing the power of resilience and community support.

Jose Ayala, recently released from Calipatria State Prison, achieved a remarkable milestone by passing the California Mental Health Services Authority (CalMHSA) Peer Support Specialist certifying exam on his first attempt. He is currently volunteering with justice-involved youth in his community, positively impacting their lives and serving as a role model for others.

Bret Moore, who was released from Avenal State Prison, has secured part-time employment with The Uncuffed Project. He is also preparing to take the CalMHSA Peer Support Specialist certification exam, reflecting his commitment to personal growth and helping others.

Both Bret and Jose exemplify the transformative potential of second chances, inspiring others as they advance their careers and contribute to their local communities. Their journeys highlight the importance of peer support in fostering positive change.

In the Community

CCI Honor Guard represents at Tehachapi Mountain festival

California Correctional Institution Honor Guard represented CDCR by presenting the colors and marching in the 61st annual Tehachapi Mountain festival. This was the first participation by the institution’s Honor Guard in 18 years, reviving an important tradition and strengthening community ties.

Led by retired Correctional Sgt. Julio Hurtado, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, the Honor Guard showcased the high standards upheld by CDCR. The team of longtime and newer staff embraced their roles and marched with pride under the summer sun.

“This was a great privilege to be out here, representing California Correctional Institution and being a part of Tehachapi tradition,” said Sgt. Michael Gonzales. The event celebrated community spirit and reaffirmed the Honor Guard’s commitment to service and excellence.

Visit Tehachapi Mountain festival website to learn more about the event.

Visit Inside CDCR to read more community involvement stories.

Office of Victim and Survivor Rights and Services

Victim Services presents to Napa County District Attorney’s office

Office of Victim and Survivor Rights and Services recently presented an overview of its services to the Napa County District Attorney’s office. This interactive session focused on victim advocates, providing valuable insights into key policies and processes.

During the presentation, advocates engaged in discussions about the Board of Parole Hearings, registration for notifications, restitution, and restorative justice. The format encouraged questions, fostering collaboration and understanding.

This training is part of ongoing efforts to bridge the gap between pre- and post-training services for victims and survivors throughout the state. By enhancing the knowledge of victim advocates, the Office of Victim and Survivor Rights and Services aims to improve support systems and resources for those affected by crime.

Visit the CDCR website for more information on victim services.

In the Media

Governor appoints Centinela State Prison Warden

On Wednesday, Gov. Gavin Newsom announced the appointment of Fidencio Guzman, of Imperial, as warden at Centinela State Prison.

Guzman has served as acting warden since 2023, was chief deputy warden from 2021 to 2023 and was correctional administrator from 2018 to 2021.

He began his CDCR career in July 1999. He has been assigned to several institutions throughout the state. Guzman has experience working with the incarcerated population at every security level, according to CDCR.

Visit Imperial Valley Press to read the full story.

After losing almost everything, a man finds his purpose by helping others

William Harris was proud of the close relationship he had with his father. It kept him afloat while he served time in prison; connecting with his dad gave him purpose. So, when his dad passed away, William felt like he lost everything. Uncuffed producer André Davis has this story about how William found meaning again by helping others when they are at their lowest. And a warning, this story mentions suicide. Please take care when listening.

Visit KALW website to listen to the full podcast.

Incarcerated students pursue college education through Cuesta College program

incarcerated people sitting in classroom

Cuesta College’s Rising Scholars program has been serving incarcerated community college students at the California Men’s Colony since 2015.

According to a Rising Scholars official at Cuesta College, the program is being funded by the California Promise Grant.

Students at the California Men’s Colony are offered two degree pathways, such as a Sociology Associate Degree for Transfer and an Associate in Arts Degree in Human Services.

Visit KSBY website to read the full story.