California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation's video: Embracing the California Model at Central California Women s Facility

Central California Women's Facility is committed to the California Model, showcasing a commitment to rehabilitation, positive experiences, and transformative change throughout the prison. The collaborative efforts of staff and incarcerated people reflect a profound dedication to public safety and successful reentry, capturing the essence of the California Model. One highlight is a unique peer mentorship program, featuring a rigorous curriculum to ensure proper support throughout the prison. In this program, incarcerated mentors as a community spearhead peer mentorship initiatives, playing a vital role in guiding their peers and fostering positive influences. This underscores the transformative power of peer mentorship, fostering community, accountability, and trust among incarcerated individuals. Maria Alaniz organizes workshops in the prison and emphasizes the significance of partnerships. "None of this would be happening if we didn't have the captains from each yard – they trust us, they believe in what we're doing,” she said.” Normalization, a foundational pillar of the California Model, aims to make prison environments more closely resemble life outside, fostering positive changes acknowledged by Alaniz, who appreciates the staff's efforts, noting, "Somebody actually believes in you." Lt. Monique Williams, the prison’s public information officer, sheds light on the positive transition facilitated by the California Model, saying, "Our transition has been amazing because we're able to connect with the population, and the staff are willing to walk through the transformation." CCWF strives to create a positive living and working environments for all. Staff play an essential role in the rehabilitation process, resulting in the reward of knowing they have not only helped the individual but also contributed to public safety by ensuring those returning to the community have the tools needed for success. This commitment at Central California Women's Facility reflects the overarching goals of the California Model, emphasizing collaboration, rehabilitation, and safety. It echoes a dedication that resonates with, the incarcerated population and their families, highlighting the positive impact on individuals and communities alike.