Division of Adult Parole Operations, Rehabilitation

Reentry Unit hosts Women’s Empowerment event

April 15, 2026

Guest speaker Debra Rush shared her story with participants at the Women's Empowerment event.

The Division of Adult Parole Operations (DAPO) Community Reentry Unit recently hosted the Central District Women’s Empowerment event.

Held March 26, the event was coordinated by Parole Agent II Specialist Melissa Cutshall.

“The event was nothing short of inspiring, bringing together a powerful community of support, and opportunity,” said DAPO officials.

Hosted at the Fresno Parole Complex, the space was transformed to feel more like a special event than an office, creating an inviting atmosphere. There were approximately 100 attendees, including community partners.

“The event created a space where women felt seen, supported, and uplifted,” organizers said.

Event sees success thanks to community partners

The event was supported by a strong network of community partners, including:

Cultural Brokers
Marjorie Mason Center
Lighthouse Recovery
Fresno Adult School
Fresno City College
as well as other organizations and volunteers.

These organizations provided information on parenting classes, reunification, employment, education, housing and other essential reentry services, ensuring attendees had access to a wide range of support systems. Each interaction reinforced the purpose of the event—to empower women with tools, knowledge, and confidence to move forward in their journeys.

A highlight of the event was special guest speaker Debra Rush of Breaking the Chains, an organization focused on providing wrap-around services to those impacted by human trafficking.

Through lived experience, her message encouraged strength, resilience and perseverance.

The event also showed a sense of generosity and community support. Over $500 worth of makeup/hygiene was donated, along with door-prize baskets, allowing participants to take home items meeting practical needs while also encouraging self-care and confidence.

Guests were also treated to lunch fostering conversation, networking, and unity among supervised persons and community organizations.

Central District Parole Administrator Provencio played a key role by hosting the event, promoting participation and ensuring a safe environment.

Fresno Parole Complex agents further supported these efforts by recommending participants, conducting outreach to encourage attendance, and assisting with transportation to ensure accessibility. Together, these efforts removed barriers and contributed to the event’s success.

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Submitted by Erick Tinoco, Parole Agent III
Approved by Brian Mendoza, Parole Administrator

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