Week in Review: April 17, 2026

April 17, 2026

In this April 17 Week in Review, we highlight the OVSRS community efforts supporting National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, SQRC’s new media center, and 38 new DAPO parole agent graduates.

Division of Adult Parole Operations

DAPO graduates 38 new parole agents, honors heroism

large room with many people in crowd facing speaker at podium and multiple participants in chairs on stage, large California seal on wall

woman walking down walkway smiling with many audience members holding up phone recording, honor guard in background

The Division of Adult Parole Operations (DAPO) graduated 38 new parole agents from Basic Parole Agent Academy (BPAA) class 1-26P at the Richard A. McGee Correctional Training Center in Galt. After completing 13 weeks of training, the graduates will begin serving communities across California.

During the ceremony, graduates Vivian Gomez and Evangelina Galindo were recognized for their quick response to a medical emergency during training, where they provided aid to a staff member until paramedics arrived. Their actions earned special commendations, reflecting the professionalism and readiness expected of DAPO agents.

“When faced with a sudden medical emergency, these students did not hesitate – they remained calm, quickly assessed the situation, and took immediate action to help someone in need.”
Parole Agent III Justin Van Emmerik

The academy prepares candidates through a rigorous training program following a competitive hiring process, equipping them to support public safety efforts statewide.

Office of Victim & Survivor Rights & Services

CDCR honors National Crime Victims’ Rights Week with community event

National Crime Victims' Rights Week event infographic with event info and date of April 21st from 9am to 1 pm at UOP McGeorge School of Law and Livestream and QR code to register

In honor of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, the Office of Victim and Survivor Rights and Services is partnering with University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law to host a hybrid event on April 21. They will talk about how to best support survivors of crimes and promote awareness of the legal rights and resources available.

The event, Stronger Together: Uniting for Victims’ Rights and Support, will offer in-person and virtual opportunities to connect with organizations and services dedicated to protecting and advocating for victims’ rights.

Since 1981, National Crime Victims’ Rights Week has been dedicated to removing the barriers to achieving justice for victims of crime. The theme for 2026 is “Listen. Act. Advocate. Protect victims, serve communities”, which reflects how meaningful change starts with awareness, and is demonstrated through intentional support, advocacy, and community engagement.

To register to attend the Stronger Together: Uniting for Victims’ Rights and Support event, click below.

Visit the OVSRS webpage for additional resources

What’s New

State-of-the-art media center opens at new SQRC Learning Center

Incarcerated and staff stand in front of large digital display inside SQRC new media center

At San Quentin Rehabilitation Center (SQRC), the new Learning Center is expanding access to education, media and career training programs.

The space supports incarcerated individuals preparing for reentry with practical, job-ready skills. It also enhances working conditions for staff and participants.

The Media Center features Uncuffed, the first podcast in California operated by incarcerated individuals. Participants learn audio storytelling using professional equipment and guidance from journalists.

The second floor includes a television studio for music and video production. Participants create self-help and educational content for use across institutions. Content will be available in English and Spanish.

The third floor houses San Quentin News, produced by incarcerated journalists. Partnerships with organizations like Pollen Initiative support training in media and leadership.

Research shows individuals who participate in correctional education programs are less likely to return to prison. These efforts support accountability, reduce recidivism and help prevent future victims of crime.

Visit the san quentin learning center WEBpage

In Our Institutions

HDSP hosts Initiate Justice event

Large group of incarcerated individuals and staff gather at HDSP initiate justice event, some holding large sign with text "community connect"

Staff at High Desert State Prison (HDSP) in Susanville partnered with Initiate Justice to host a three-day event centered on education, advocacy, and engagement.

Initiate Justice is led by people directly impacted by incarceration and focuses on grassroots organizing and reform. Their team facilitated guest speakers, workgroups, and guided discussions.

More than 100 attendees, including staff, community partners, and incarcerated individuals, participated throughout the event. Opening ceremonies and structured sessions created space for participants to share experiences and engage in dialogue.

Informational booths and take-home materials were available, while music and shared meals supported connection and reflection. These elements complemented the educational focus of the event.

One incarcerated participant reflected on the experience.

“This felt so real,” he said. “The live music and message being sent to all of us made the day feel like we were not in prison.”

The event created space for voices and experiences not always heard. It also reflected the role of partnerships in bringing meaningful programming into the institution.

ASP food sale supports local animal shelter

5 ASP staff stand holding oversized check to Valley Animal Haven donation in the amount of $2,591.22

A food sale at Avenal State Prison (ASP) is making a difference beyond the institution’s walls.

On April 14, incarcerated individuals on Facility E organized and carried out the event. They raised $2,591.22 in support of Valley Animal Haven.

The nonprofit focuses on rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming dogs and cats. Its goal is to place each animal in a safe, permanent home.

The funds will support ongoing efforts to provide food, medical care and safe housing for animals in need.

This effort reflects civic responsibility and empathy among incarcerated individuals. It shows meaningful contributions can come from all communities.

CDCR, CCHCS make Easter special

CDCR staff from Ironwood delivering baskets to elementary schools in the Blythe, California, area.

CDCR and CCHCS staff across California made Easter special for families inside and outside our institutions. See the full round-up of activities and community donations on Inside CDCR.

View the full Easter round-up

CHCF fundraisers support girl scouts, Special Olympics and veterans

CHCF incarcerated individuals stand with donation check for $10,300 from their food sales

Incarcerated individuals at California Health Care Facility (CHCF) in Stockton raised more than $20,000 through fundraisers supporting local nonprofits.

The first effort was inspired by the Offender Mentor Certification Program (OMCP). They learned of a Girl Scouts troop in Stockton raising funds for a trip to Disneyland.

Incarcerated individuals supported the effort through a cookie sale. The fundraiser raised $7,574 for the troop. An additional $2,200 was donated to Special Olympics Northern California through the Polar Plunge.

A second fundraiser followed. CHCF hosted a food sale featuring meals from KFC and Costco. The event raised $10,300 for a San Joaquin County veterans organization.

“These efforts reflect a shared commitment to giving back,” said Warden (A) Vang. “It is a privilege for CHCF to support our community.”

Rehabilitation

Alive Inside nonprofit brings music, reflection to CMC

Man holds guitar and sings into microphone

Alive Inside brought music-based programming to California Men’s Colony (CMC) in San Luis Obispo, creating space for reflection and connection.

The nonprofit led workshops and open mic sessions across multiple facilities and yards. Participants explored themes of grief and gratitude through music, writing and conversation.

The program works with communities impacted by incarceration. It uses creative expression to explore loss, connection and shared experiences. Sessions are designed to encourage open dialogue in a respectful setting.

Participation was strong throughout the event. Incarcerated individuals shared personal stories, engaged in discussions and supported one another during open mic sessions.

The program supports ongoing rehabilitative efforts by encouraging self-reflection and personal growth. CMC continues to value partnerships that bring meaningful programming to the institution.

WSP-RC hosts faith-based HOPE event

Group of staff, incarcerated and HOPE program members gather together and pray together

Wasco State Prison-Reception Center (WSP-RC) welcomed Prison Fellowship Ministry volunteers to host a HOPE event for those housed on Facility A.

The event offered a faith-based message and worship service in preparation for Easter. It provided an opportunity for reflection, encouragement, and voluntary participation.

Prison Fellowship Ministry, a long-standing partner in faith-based programming, supports rehabilitation efforts through spiritual guidance and positive engagement.

The event was made possible through collaboration between ministry volunteers and WSP-RC staff. Planning efforts focused on ensuring safety and security while supporting meaningful programming.

The HOPE event brought participants together in a shared space focused on encouragement and reflection. It highlighted how faith-based programs can support individual growth and reinforce a sense of purpose.

Observances

Second Chance Month

April marks Second Chance Month, recognizing the impact of rehabilitation and reentry in supporting success after incarceration.

Antón Irvin finds his Second Chance

Antón Irvin, formerly incarcerated, found his Second Chance through the Re-Emerging Scholars Program at Sacramento City College.

While on the inside, Antón gained introspection through the provided self-help programs, shifting his focus towards bettering himself.

Antón was advised that he would need to participate in a STOP (Specialized Treatment for Optimized Programming) program, following his release.

Freedom Through Education, a STOP organization in Sacramento, provided Antón with the resources needed to set himself up for success. From housing to counseling/treatment to job training, Freedom Through Education ensured Irvin was provided the tools needed for a successful community re-entry.

Reflecting on his experience with STOP, Irvin said it’s important to surround yourself with those looking to change.

Read the full story and watch the video on inside Cdcr