Millbrae came alive during the annual Lunar New Year Parade and celebration with San Quentin Rehabilitation Center (SQRC) recruiters on hand to answer questions.
The colorful two-day event featured music, food, and community spirit. What began years ago as a small local celebration has grown into one of the Peninsula’s most prominent showcases of Asian heritage, drawing families and community visitors from across California.
The aroma of traditional cuisine filled the air as families sampled lumpia, garlic shrimp, and sweet treats. One of the highlights of the afternoon was the Chinese Dragon dance. The brightly colored dragon weaved through the crowd, moving in rhythm to the beat of drums. The dance symbolizes prosperity, strength, and good fortune for the Year of the Horse.
Public safety agencies were also present. San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office Field Training Officer Rob Duran and his colleagues engaged with attendees. The deputies provided a reassuring presence throughout the festivities.
SQRC recruiters make connections
SQRC recruiter Officer J. Ho connected with the public to share information about the work and recent initiatives designed to improve public safety and reduce recidivism. While highlighting rewarding career opportunities, rehabilitative programs and the educational benefits for the population and staff. Ho could not resist handing out Junior Correctional Officer sticker badges for the children who walked by.
While speaking with local attendees, SQRC met a passionate advocate for prison reform who shared a compelling personal connection to rehabilitation efforts. The gentleman had attended George Washington High School with Frank Ruona, a veteran marathoner and coach who made history in 2003 as the first coach of the San Quentin 1000 Mile Club at San Quentin Rehabilitation Center.
The 1000 Mile Club was inspired by an incarcerated runner named R. Goodman, who approached the prison’s program director seeking proper coaching to pursue his passion for long-distance running. The transformative program provides incarcerated individuals with the opportunity to experience the discipline and resilience, through running.
Interested Correctional Officer applicants can apply online at JoinCDCR.com.
Submitted by Lt. G. Berry
Follow CDCR on YouTube, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter). Listen to the CDCR Unlocked podcast.
See more stories about CDCR facilities, training and jobs.
Related content
Mule Creek ISU disrupts crime, contraband
At Mule Creek State Prison, the Investigative Services Unit (ISU) helps keep the institution safe, out of sight and behind…
CARU staff complete three days of training
CDCR’s Centralized Allegation Resolution Unit (CARU) staff successfully completed annual training from March 24–26. Over the course of three full…
SQRC recruiters visit Lunar New Year festivities
Millbrae came alive during the annual Lunar New Year Parade and celebration with San Quentin Rehabilitation Center (SQRC) recruiters on…
Watch: Harvest of the Month: Local, fresh produce
In recognition of National Nutrition Month, CDCR is highlighting its Harvest of the Month (HOTM) program. HOTM is a joint…
Watch: CDCR Public Safety Career Fair featured on Fox40 News
The third annual CDCR Public Safety Career Fair at Sacramento City College on March 26 is creating quite the buzz.…
WSP‑RC recruiters attend middle school career fairs
Wasco State Prison-Reception Center (WSP-RC) attended college and career fairs at two middle schools in Wasco. The late February and…