Week in Review: April 3, 2026

April 3, 2026

In this April 3 Week in Review, we highlight Second Chance Month at CSP-SOL, CDCR Alcohol Awareness Campaign, and staff appreciation at PVSP.

Second Chance Month highlights rehabilitation and reentry

April marks Second Chance Month, recognizing the impact of rehabilitation and reentry in supporting success after incarceration. Across CDCR, programs through the Division of Rehabilitative Programs, CCHCS and the Division of Adult Parole Operations support individuals as they build skills, strengthen stability and move forward with purpose.

CSP-SOL adult school graduation opens doors to second chances

California State Prison, Solano recognized adult school graduates, highlighting the role of education in supporting rehabilitation and success after incarceration.

More than 70 individuals earned general educational development (GED) certificates, high school diplomas and other credentials, reflecting sustained commitment to long-term goals.

Principal Summer Peterson encouraged graduates to carry their accomplishments forward.
“This feeling of accomplishment, pride, self-efficacy, hold on to it,” Peterson said. “You’ve already written the story once, now you have the pen in your hand, keep writing.”

Educators also recognized the determination shown throughout the program. GED teacher Dwight Archer, who has worked with some students for years, reflected on the milestone.

“They stuck it out and were determined to do it. They never gave up,” Archer said.

Some graduates are continuing their progress through programs such as the Peer Literacy Mentor Program, using their experience to support others.

“You never know what you’re able to accomplish unless you try,” one graduate said.

The milestone underscores the impact of education in supporting growth and a path forward after incarceration.

In Our Institutions

CCWF hosts first-ever film festival in a women’s prison

Writer and director Abby Pierce speaks to film festival attendees at CCWF.

On March 28, CCWF hosted “San Quentin Film Festival at CCWF”, celebrating the work of incarcerated and formerly incarcerated filmmakers. The event featured screenings of award-winning short films from the 2025 San Quentin Film Festival, followed by a filmmaker panel moderated by comedian and television host W. Kamau Bell.

Read the full story on inside cdcr

PVSP recognizes staff during Employee Appreciation Day

Man sits on dunk tank seat while another man gets ready to throw a ball. Staff standing in background.

PVSP staff mingle at staff appreciation day outdoor event

Pleasant Valley State Prison recognized staff across all shifts during its annual Employee Appreciation Day, celebrating their contributions and service.

The Employee Action Committee, with support from administrative staff, organized a full day of activities, meals and recognition. Staff were provided breakfast, a barbecue meal and dessert options throughout the day.

More than 100 raffle prizes were distributed through support from vendors, associations and community partners. The event also included an awards ceremony, car show, vendor fair, music and a dunk tank featuring executive staff.

The event supported morale and strengthened connection across the institution.

CEN hosts intra-facility softball game

incarcerated individuals sitting and standing on baseball field

Centinela State Prison Facilities A and B participated in an intra-facility softball game, bringing staff and incarcerated individuals together for friendly competition.

Held on Facility A’s field, the game lasted nine innings and concluded with a 6–2 win for Facility A.

Participants from both facilities highlighted the positive atmosphere and teamwork throughout the event.

The game promoted collaboration, sportsmanship and connection across the institution.

CTF graduates 44 from “Choices for Life” program

Multiple incarcerated individuals stand together holding graduation certificates

The Correctional Training Facility (CTF) recognized 44 incarcerated individuals who completed the “Choices for Life” program, an eight-week course focused on personal growth, accountability and purpose.

Developed by Rabbi Yochanan Friedman, the program centers on principles such as self-reflection, responsibility and contributing to something greater than oneself. It is designed to be inclusive and has expanded to multiple institutions across CDCR.

Leaders noted that participants demonstrated a strong commitment to personal development and positive change throughout the program.

The graduation highlights the continued impact of self-help programming in supporting rehabilitation and long-term growth.

CIW marks Women’s History Month with keynote and celebration

Keynote speaker Chino Hills City Councilwoman Cynthia Moran sits at desk with gavel in front of her

The California Institution for Women (CIW) recognized Women’s History Month with a special event featuring keynote speaker Chino Hills City Councilwoman Cynthia Moran.

The program reflected the theme “Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future,” highlighting the impact of women driving progress in their communities. Moran shared personal reflections on how incarceration affects families, offering a perspective that resonated with attendees.

The event also included musical performances by CIW’s Second Chance Band, showcasing the talent and growth of participants, followed by awards and a raffle.

The celebration emphasized community, empathy and opportunity while honoring the contributions of women past and present.

WSP-RC hosts Health and Wellness Fair for incarcerated individuals

Three staff members stand behind ISUDT table booth

Person with peer support shirt stands at booth with ISUDT display

Wasco State Prison-Reception Center hosted a Health and Wellness Fair for incarcerated individuals housed in Level III General Population and Minimum Level facilities.

The event featured educational stations focused on high blood pressure, diabetes, nutrition, dental care, immunizations and other key health topics. Participants were able to speak directly with medical, nursing, dental and mental health staff to ask questions and receive practical information about their care.

The fair supports ongoing efforts to promote health awareness, preventive care and overall wellness within the institution. Staff reported strong engagement and positive feedback from participants.

Division of Adult Parole Operations

DAPO events empower women in reentry

The San Fernando Valley and San Gabriel Valley parole districts, along with the Female Community Reentry Program (FCRP), recognized Women’s History Month with a series of events focused on empowerment and reentry support.

Monthly Women Empowerment Meetings were expanded to highlight the contributions of women who advanced gender equality while providing participants with tools for personal and professional growth. At FCRP, the “Wolf Lessons for Human Lives” class emphasized the importance of support systems for individuals transitioning back into the community.

Guest speakers offered practical guidance, resources and encouragement, helping participants build confidence and plan for long-term success. The events connected historical progress with present-day opportunities for growth.

The Community Reentry Unit (CRU) also distributed commemorative bookmarks to attendees. The effort highlighted a shared commitment to resilience, support and continued development.

Partnership brings Second Chance Resource Fair to Yolo County

multiple staff members stand around second chance resource fair sign

The Community Reentry Unit, in partnership with Yolo County Probation, Sacramento County Office of Education and YoloWorks, hosted a Second Chance Resource Fair in Woodland, connecting justice-impacted individuals with employment and support services.

More than 100 participants attended, alongside approximately 30 employers and resource providers. The event created direct pathways to job opportunities, education and community-based services across Yolo County and surrounding areas.

Agencies and organizations worked together to provide a range of support focused on successful reintegration. Attendees engaged with employers, explored career options and accessed services designed to promote stability and long-term success.

CRU Parole Agent II Specialist Jonathan Richardson emphasized the importance of collaboration and outreach in reentry efforts, noting that meeting individuals where they are is key to building meaningful opportunities.

Organizers plan to continue expanding these efforts through Parole and Community Team (PACT) meetings and other initiatives, reinforcing ongoing access to resources and support for supervised individuals.

Agencies unite to deliver reentry resources in North County

Many people walking outside with booths set up along walkway

The DAPO Community Reentry Unit, Tri-City Parole District and San Diego County Probation partnered to host the second annual North County Resource Fair at the Vista Courthouse, bringing together agencies focused on reentry support and public safety.

More than 100 service providers participated, offering resources such as case management, education, legal assistance, veteran services and family reunification support. Attendees also accessed immediate needs including haircuts, food distribution, mobile phones and notary services.

Mobile units provided on-site medical, dental and tattoo removal services, supporting individuals preparing to enter the workforce.

Nearly 300 community members attended, including more than 100 justice-involved individuals. Among them was Hosea Davis, now working full-time as a dental assistant, who attended to explore additional opportunities and share resources with others. He noted that support from his Agent of Record has played a key role in his progress.

DAPO Director Bryan Bishop, San Diego County Probation Chief Tamika Nelson and Supervisor Jim Desmond were also in attendance, underscoring the role of cross-agency collaboration in strengthening reentry outcomes. The event highlighted how coordinated efforts can expand access to resources and support long-term success.

Observances

Alcohol Awareness Month

no judgment. no stigma. just support

CDCR recognizes that turning to alcohol to cope, relieve tension, or just ease life stressors can have profoundly negative consequences across every important domain of life, including physical and mental health, relationships, and career.  To combat this, the Department launched their Alcohol Awareness Campaign, “no judgment. no stigma. just support.” Empowering individuals through substance use education and awareness.  

Through a variety of platforms over the coming months, the campaign will provide information, education, and resources related to substance use to empower staff and their families to lead fulfilling lives and careers.

In the Community

SVSP and CTF support local youth at Little League Opening Day

4 members of the CTF honor guard stand with American and CA flags on baseball field

Staff from Salinas Valley State Prison (SVSP) and CTF, along with their Honor Guard, joined the community to support Ferrasci Little League Opening Day.

In addition to participating in the ceremony, staff and incarcerated individuals raised and donated $990.42 to support the league. The funds will assist with equipment, field maintenance and other program needs that help keep youth engaged in sports.

The effort reflects an ongoing commitment to community involvement and positive impact. Through outreach and service, SVSP and CTF continue working to strengthen relationships and contribute to local programs.

By supporting youth activities, staff and participants are helping create opportunities that encourage growth, connection and long-term success.

Recruitment

CEN connects with students at local career day

Lieutenant M. Ramos interacts with children at outdoor career day booth

Centinela State Prison participated in a local elementary school career day, engaging approximately 300 students in conversations about careers in law enforcement and public service.

Lt. M. Ramos, recruitment lead, represented CDCR alongside other local agencies, providing an overview of career paths, responsibilities and daily operations. Students asked thoughtful questions and showed strong interest in future opportunities.

The event focused on building early awareness of public safety careers while helping students better understand the role correctional professionals play. Outreach efforts like this also support long-term recruitment by introducing career pathways at a young age.

Participation reflects Centinela State Prison’s continued commitment to community engagement and workforce development.

Campus events connect students to CDCR career pathways

CDCR recruitment staff stand at booth on college campus

Ongoing outreach at California State University campuses continues to support recruitment efforts through collaboration with the Northern and Central Background Investigations Units.

Their presence at events at CSU Sacramento and CSU Fresno allows prospective applicants to receive immediate guidance on the background process, helping clarify requirements and reduce barriers early in the hiring journey.

Sgt. Danny Condon of the Northern Background Investigations Unit emphasized that consistent engagement plays a key role in building trust and interest among students. Regular interaction helps make the transition from student to applicant more accessible and understandable.

The effort highlights the value of sustained campus outreach in strengthening the department’s recruitment pipeline.

CDCR expands recruitment into local fitness community

Recruitment staff stand at booth inside fitness facility

CDCR recruiters are expanding outreach by partnering with local fitness centers, connecting with potential candidates in spaces that emphasize discipline and consistency.

Partnerships with City Sports Club in Crocker Village and In-Shape Health Clubs in the Florin-Pocket area create opportunities to engage individuals who already prioritize physical fitness, a key component of the correctional officer role.

Recruitment Analyst II Danny Royster noted that physical readiness is essential not only for the Physical Fitness Test, but also for the day-to-day demands of the job. By meeting individuals where they already train, recruiters are able to connect with candidates who value endurance and performance.

The approach reflects a broader strategy to identify qualified candidates through targeted, community-based outreach.

In the Media

Incarcerated woman looks at film festival program

Visiting the First Film Festival at a Women’s Prison in California History

Cinephiles, photographers, professors and podcasters had all arrived in Chowchilla for the first-ever film festival held inside of a women’s prison in California.