Week in Review: March 20, 2026

March 20, 2026

In this March 20 Week in Review, we spotlight Clinical Social Worker Sara Gibbs, DAPO’s Reentry Days, and upcoming cancer walk at Corcoran.

Staff Spotlight

Meet Sara Gibbs, DAPO Clinical Social Worker

Two staff looking at paper, one standing up one sitting at desk

In recognition of National Social Workers Month, we caught up with Sara Gibbs, a clinical social worker with the Division of Adult Parole Operations (DAPO) Behavioral Health Reintegration (BHR), to learn how she supports individuals on parole through care and coordination.

Based at the Elder Creek Parole Office, Gibbs works with a team of social workers, psychiatrists and parole agents to connect clients with services, manage appointments and respond to crises. Her path to the role began with a background in criminology, followed by experience coordinating care for individuals preparing for parole and later earning a master’s degree in social work.

“A typical day for me involves meeting with clients, coordinating appointments, follow ups and linkages to services in the community, and at times, crisis intervention,” she said.

She added that progress is often gradual but meaningful. “Sometimes what we do is plant seeds … laying the groundwork for future changes we don’t get to see.”

Her work focuses on helping individuals stabilize and connect with the support needed to reintegrate into the community.

Division of Adult Parole Operations

CRU launches Reentry Days to expand one-on-one support at parole offices

Female staff member meets with an individual at her desk with reentry services sign on desk

The Division of Adult Parole Operations (DAPO) Community Reentry Unit (CRU) launched “Reentry Days” to provide one-on-one support and connect individuals to services immediately after release.

The initiative transforms parole complexes into resource hubs where supervised individuals meet privately with service providers and enroll on the spot. As a result, staff can help address critical needs early, including housing and mental health support.

Unlike large group orientations, the smaller setting allows for direct connection and immediate action. Previously, Parole and Community Team (PACT) meetings introduced services, but time and complexity often limited enrollment.

Reentry Days reflects a shift toward proactive supervision by focusing on placement into services that address critical early needs and support long-term success.

Upward Mobility

Thomas Boon was appointed Director of the Division of Enterprise Information Services (EIS), CDCR

Kevin Hixon was appointed acting Deputy Director, Facility Support, Division of Adult Institutions (DAI), CDCR

*Listed in alphabetical order by last name

In the Community

CSP-Corcoran hosts third annual Valley Children’s Cancer Walk

Flyer with CSP-Corcorans 2026 cancer walk details

At California State Prison (CSP) Corcoran, staff and incarcerated participants are coming together for a shared cause during the third annual Valley Children’s Cancer Walk.

The event, hosted by Visions Adult School under Principal B. Xiong, began in 2023 with leadership from Coach Heidi Wippel. It was inspired by incarcerated participant Eric Estrada, who aimed to raise awareness and unite participants in the fight against cancer. This year’s walks will be held April 21-23.

In addition, a friendly competition between yards helps drive fundraising efforts. Facility 3B raised the most funds in 2024 under the leadership of Capt. R. Clifton and Sgt. P. Rodriguez.

Over the past two years, the event has raised more than $20,000, with all proceeds supporting childhood cancer.

Acting Warden Silva attended the event and recognized staff and participant contributions.

Gabilan camp marks 40 years with new billboard

Large billboard with text: Gabilan Conservation Camp, wildfire protection since 1986, Soledad, CA and photo of a grass fire.

Drivers along Highway 101 near Gonzalez are now seeing a tribute to service.

Recently, Gabilan Conservation Camp 38 received community recognition through a new electronic billboard. The display, placed by Golden Bear Outdoor Advertising, highlights the camp’s 40th anniversary of fire service within the San Benito-Monterey Unit.

The public service announcement brings increased visibility to the camp’s role in supporting wildfire response and community safety. It also reflects local support for the program.

As a result, daily commuters now see a reminder of the camp’s continued impact across the region.

WSP‑RC recruiters attend middle school career fairs

Recruiters interact with students at a career fair.

Wasco State Prison-Reception Center (WSP-RC) attended college and career fairs at two middle schools in Wasco.

The late February and early March events allowed representatives from the institution to meet with students to share information about career opportunities within CDCR. Recruiters also highlighted the variety of professional paths available in public service.

READ THE FULL STORY ON INSIDE CDCR

In Our Institutions

CMF hosts Paws for Life banquet

At California Medical Facility (CMF), a recent banquet brought together staff, participants and partners to reflect on the impact of the Paws for Life K9 Rescue program.

The event, held in the facility gymnasium, highlighted the connection between incarcerated trainers and the dogs in their care. Paws for Life leadership, including CEO Alex Tonner, joined staff and Warden Sircoya Williams in recognizing the program’s progress.

Speakers shared how the program supports both rehabilitation and skill development. In addition, it provides dogs from high-risk shelters with training and a path to adoption.

Since launching at CMF, the program has placed 273 dogs into homes. Currently, 27 participants are training eight dogs for placement.

As a result, the program continues to support growth, responsibility and positive outcomes for all involved.

Stay tuned for the full story on Inside CDCR.

CHCF puppy earns second chance at service training

3 staff members and incarcerated person stand with service dog

At California Health Care Facility (CHCF), a service dog in training is getting a second chance to succeed.

Tisha, a Canine Companions puppy, was not yet ready for advanced training. Instead, she was placed in CHCF’s puppy program for additional development. Associate Warden W. Lewis designated her a “second chance” puppy.

With support from staff and incarcerated participants, Tisha began refining her behavior. Director Gena Jones was introduced to Tisha during a Palliative Care Unit event, where staff learned of her new opportunity. Since then, encouragement from across the institution has followed.

After several months in the program, Tisha has shown improved discipline and confidence. As a result, she has earned the opportunity to continue advanced training.

CTF graduates pitch business plans in Defy Ventures program

CTF warden shakes hands with happy graduate

A graduation ceremony at Correctional Training Facility (CTF) ended with more than recognition. It ended with opportunity.

Participants in the Defy Ventures “CEO of Your New Life” program presented business ideas during a formal pitch competition. Over nine months, participants developed plans outlining their target markets, operations and financial strategies.

Family members attended the event, watching final presentations and celebrating program completion. Meanwhile, six awards, ranging from $50 to $500, were given as seed funding to support future business efforts.

In addition, participants took part in “Step to the Line,” a structured exercise focused on reflection and accountability.

“Programs like Defy support our rehabilitation efforts by providing participants with practical business skills”

Acting Warden C. Rojas

The ceremony concluded with recognition of graduates, mentors and staff.

HDSP graduates 18 from conflict resolution program

A group of incarcerated graduates stand with female staff member holding graduation certificates

Eighteen incarcerated persons at High Desert State Prison (HDSP) in Susanville recently graduated from the Creative Conflict Resolution (CCR) program, marking progress in communication and conflict management.

CCR classes focus on building practical interpersonal skills. Participants learn active listening, anger management and how to respect boundaries. In addition, the program uses group discussions, role-playing and interactive activities to reinforce nonviolent thinking.

The classes are led by Janette Williams-Harms, a Family Liaison Services Specialist with Friends Outside, who partners with CDCR to support incarcerated individuals and their families.

As a result, participants leave the program with tools designed to improve communication and decision-making.

Observances

Women’s History Month

Meet the first matrons of San Quentin

Historical photo of female matron sitting at her desk

With 15 women incarcerated at San Quentin in the mid-1880s, the state decided to create a matron position to oversee them.

Originally housed above the Captain’s Porch, the incarcerated women were kept separate from the men. The building was eventually expanded to create a wing for the women. Later, a new facility, dubbed Bay View, was constructed on the point just outside the wall. When California Institution for Women at Tehachapi was activated in 1933, the women were relocated and their building was repurposed.

In this installment of Unlocking History, we look more closely at the first women to hold the matron position at San Quentin.

Read the Unlocking History story

Recruitment

Staff share career paths and advice for women in law enforcement

As CDCR advances its 30×30 initiative, staff are sharing real experiences to encourage more women to pursue careers in law enforcement.

Female parole agent with 30x30 text on graphic — Tracy Master, Parole Agent

“I work many public events and often talk to women about a career in law enforcement. I especially like to connect with older women. I was 51 years old when I became a parole agent. It is never too late to step into this type of career. Older women bring invaluable life experience, communication skills, and resilience that are deeply needed in the field today. It’s never too late to step into a meaningful career where your strength can guide, protect, and inspire others. Your wisdom is your greatest asset – and that’s exactly what this profession needs.”

Female CDCR officer with 30x30 text on graphic — Officer Maricela Olvera, Ironwood State Prison

“One of the most rewarding experiences in my career has been the opportunity to train and develop others. In my early years, I was given the opportunity and privilege of teaching a wide range of In-Service Training classes: CPR, baton, weapons handling, use of force, alarm response, and currently recruitment. A major milestone for me was becoming the first female Range Master in 2018. That achievement is something I’m truly proud of, not just for myself, but because it allowed me to elevate my female partners encouraging them to do the same.”

In the Media

San Quentin Film Festival (SQFF) to Hold Event at Central California Women’s Facility

The San Quentin Film Festival (SQFF) announced that its first event held outside the walls of San Quentin Rehabilitation Center will take place March 28 at Central California Women’s Facility (CCWF) in Chowchilla.