SCC incarcerated crochet group helps kids

February 28, 2025

Stuffed animals crafted by an incarcerated crochet group at SCC were donated to kids in the Philippines.

A group of incarcerated persons at Sierra Conservation Center (SCC) used their crochet skills to donate stuffed animals to kids in need.

Assigned to Facility C, a non-designated programming facility, incarcerated persons have been attending the rehabilitative Hooks and Needles class. For a year, they’ve gathered weekly to learn the art of crochet.

Group of incarcerated people and staff with the Hooks and Needles crochet group at SCC. — In the back, from left, are incarcerated participants Joel Jaquez, Fabian Pozos, James Newman, Malik Keys, Scott Grizzle, Tracy Paul, David Hollars, and Donald Walker. In the middle row are facilitator Stephanie Pike, Facility C acting Capt. Ryan Varney, Community Resources Manager John Houston, acting Warden Joshua Prudhel, volunteer Chris Tedder, and Assoc. Warden Robert Vincent. In the front are Lisa Fender, Joanna Tedder, and incarcerated participant Adam Richards.

Lisa Fender, paramedic with the Copperopolis Fire Department, took the donation to San Pablo City in the Philippines. Fender sponsors children through an organization known as Philippine Frontline Ministries, assisting underserved and remote areas in the Philippines.

The collective efforts of everyone involved ensured finished items (crochet animals) reached children’s programs far beyond facility walls. This act reinforces the program’s broader spirit of altruism and civic engagement.

What is Hooks and Needles?

“Working together, they developed a safe, encouraging environment, offering one another support,” according to the community resources manager’s office. “This collective progress was grounded in the principles of peer support and personal responsibility. Group members are holding themselves and each other accountable while strengthening rapport with SCC staff and sponsors alike. In turn, the program has become a cornerstone of community-building. Members are forging positive relationships with SCC staff who have shown keen interest in each person’s progress and upcoming projects.”

By embracing peer support and personal responsibility, this initiative is making a lasting impact on its participants, institution, and communities.

Learn more about Philippine Frontline Ministries on their website.

Submitted by Lt. Ruben S. Jauregui