Participants of the Female Community Reentry Program (FCRP) in Sacramento graduated from the Anti-Recidivism Coalition (ARC) April 23.
Candice Lewis, a formerly incarcerated person turned Life Coach for the Hope & Redemption Team (HART) with ARC, taught seven courses to this cohort.
Courses included:
- Emotional Intelligence
- Communication Skills
- Coping with Guilt and Shame
- Anger and Aggression
- Domestic Violence
- Criminal Gangs Anonymous (CGA)
- and Intimate Relationships.

“We basically give them the tools they need in order to come out and live a productive life,” said Lewis.
Watch the video (story continues below):
Participants were encouraged to bring family and friends to the event for an evening of celebration, laughs, and food.
Jamie Vaughn, another participant, was highlighted for her achievement in graduating from all seven of ARC courses.

“We can all change, but something can change right back,” said Vaughn. “Transforming is when you develop into a different person. What I work on every day is that I need to love myself and tell myself nice things. Thank you, Candice, and ARC for showing me how to love myself.”
This event is one of many recognizing the achievements of individuals working to better themselves while honoring those who supported them along their rehabilitative journey.
Story and video by Matthew Sichler, associate governmental program analyst
Read more rehabilitation stories.
Follow CDCR on YouTube, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter). Listen to the CDCR Unlocked podcast.
Related content
Meet Cassandra Hamm: From FCRP participant to professional
When Cassandra Hamm arrived at the Female Community Reentry Program (FCRP) in Stockton, she was determined to change the course of her…
Watch: CMF sees 58 graduate Cognitive Behavioral Interventions
California Medical Facility (CMF) in Vacaville, the Division of Rehabilitative Programs and Amity Foundation recently hosted a graduation event for…
CALCTRA honors graduates at Centinela State Prison
The California Correctional Training and Rehabilitation Authority (CALCTRA) recognized 25 incarcerated individuals at Centinela State Prison for successfully completing their…
Watch: CIM learns lessons from Saints’ softball team
The Saints, a traveling softball team spreading messages of hope inside prisons, played an exhibition game against California Institution for…
CSU‑Sacramento holds graduation at Mule Creek
Mule Creek State Prison in Ione and California State University-Sacramento recently held a graduation ceremony for more than two dozen…
CIW, Defy Ventures celebrate second chances
Defy Ventures partnered with the California Institution for Women (CIW) June 25 to host a business pitch competition and graduation.…