Community Involvement, Front page, Rehabilitation

PBSP raises over $1k for children’s hospital

November 12, 2026

Incarcerated individuals at Pelican Bay State Prison (PBSP), Facility D, raised $1,123 for the Shriners Children’s Hospital of Northern California during their third annual Walk-a-Thon.

>> Learn more about the children’s hospital organization on their website.

Held Oct. 3, the charitable event was organized through a joint effort by Operation Think Tank and the Facility D Lifers Group. This year’s facility walk was held in conjunction with the third annual LWOP (life without parole) Walk-For-Life, held Sept. 29 at the State Capitol. Together, these events connected the population inside Facility D with broader statewide advocacy and community engagement.

Walking for a cause

The money raised directly benefits the children’s hospital. The funds support the hospital’s mission to provide specialized medical care to children regardless of a family’s ability to pay.

For those living on Facility D, the opportunity to contribute to this vital cause provided a profound sense of purpose.

Gratitude to leadership, staff

Organizers and participants expressed deep gratitude toward PBSP administration and staff for making the event possible. In a joint statement, participants extended a special thank you to the PBSP staff and the warden’s office for their vital logistical support and encouragement.

Group photo of people at the PBSP walk-a-thon to raise money for a children's hospital.

“We are proud, blessed and very thankful we are allowed to do this,” participants said. “We were able to give back and live out our indirect amends on our path to recovery, change and pro-social behavior.”

Path to rehabilitation

Events like the annual walk-a-thon highlight the growing impact of inmate-led organizations like Operation Think Tank and the Lifers Group. By focusing on accountability, community service and personal growth, these programs allow incarcerated individuals to actively practice pro-social behaviors while creating tangible benefits for the outside world.

Submitted by Lt. J. Hartgrove

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