Pine Grove Youth Conservation Camp (YCC) is celebrating 80 years of rehabilitation. Founded in 1945, the camp has continued serving the community while preparing younger people for reentry after they complete their sentences.
Dignitaries, guests, and Secretary Jeff Macomber attended the June 4 anniversary celebration.
“Thank you to all staff from who came together from different agencies,” said Lt. Vanessa Melendez, camp commander. “Thank you for showing up every day with purpose and dedication. The work you do matters, and the impact you have is lasting.”
Watch the video (story continues below):
History of the camp
>> Read about the camp’s history (published in 2015).
The camp was founded during the post-World War II era when the federal government sought to find new uses for mothballed military installations. CDCR has a long tradition of repurposing those installations.
California Medical Facility began at Terminal Island before a permanent facility was constructed in Vacaville. The now-shuttered Deuel Vocational Institution in Tracy started at War Eagle Field in Lancaster. Back then, it was known as California Vocational Institution. After serving as a resort at Norco, then a military hospital, the facility was repurposed as California Rehabilitation Center.
Video by Richard Tan, TV Specialist
Office of Public and Employee Communications
Observance photos supplied by Pine Grove Youth Conservation Camp
Pine Grove YCC history in photos
Learn more about California prison history.
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