THE LOOP
WestCareFamily,
As we step into March and embrace the arrival of Spring, we find ourselves in a season of new beginnings, fresh opportunities, and growth. Spring reminds us that change is not only possible, but essential With each passing season, we witness the remarkable transformation of the lives we touch and the spirits we uplift This season of renewal mirrors the work our WestCare team delivers each and every day - where every step forward represents hope, progress, andabrighterfutureforthoseweserveandourcommunities
March has been a month filled with meaningful moments and milestones that reflect the heart of our mission From community events to initiatives that directly support those in need, we’ve seen firsthand how the dedication and care of our staff and supporters continuetoinspireandupliftthepeopleweserve Belowarejustafew highlights from this past month, as we celebrate the growth, connections,andprogresswe’remakingtogether:
MLK Residential’s Alumni Car Show brought together a community of car enthusiasts, showcasing classic vehicles and motorcycles to engage current clients in treatment services We are happy that we have been able to revitalize alumni as they are anintegralpartofservicesandanexampleofrecovery Theyoffer hope and inspiration to current clients, showing that long-term recovery is possible Seeing someone who has walked the same path and is now thriving can motivate clients to stay committed to theirownrecoveryjourney
In the midst of rainy weather, the Wings Advocacy Fresno team has been making a significant impact by delivering much-needed furniture to homesandfamilies,ensuringthatnooneisleftbehind
The Living Room hosted a heartwarming Valentine's luncheon for their clients,spreadingloveandconnectiontothoseaffectedbyHIV/AIDS. Additionally, staff throughout our California programs were treated to a well-deserved Employee Appreciation Day, recognizing their dedication and hard work These events highlight the spirit of care, connection, and community - making a difference in the lives of those theyserve
As we move through this season of growth and renewal, let us continue to support one another and celebrate the successes that make a lasting impact,nomatterhowsmall Theworkwedotogether-whetherit’sthrough providing essential resources, fostering connection, or honoring recoveryfuels the mission that drives us forward Here's to new beginnings, fresh opportunities, and continued growth for all the lives we have the privilege of serving
Jenny Gonzalez, Vice President
CELEBRATING SECOND CHANCES: Criminal Justice Month at W
By Robert Church, Deputy Administrator, WestCare California
DAY REPORTING CENTER (DRC)
Located in Fresno, our DRC program offers various drop-in services, vocational assistance, and linkages to treatment for parolees
Fresno
559-485-0410
FEMALE COMMUNITY REENTRY PROGRAM (FCRP) - SAN DIEGO & STOCKTON
Serving San Diego and Stockton, our FCRP programs provide services to high-risk women who have 45 days to two years left in their sentence Providing them a place in the community, we address substance use, criminal thinking, family reunification, educational and vocational skills, and more
San Diego
619-359-8266
Stockton
209-642-8488
SPECIALIZED TREATMENT FOR OPTIMIZED PROGRAMMING (STOP) AREAS 1 & 3
With offices in Chico, North Highlands, Bakersfield, Fresno, and Stockton, our STOP programs serve those on active probation from Kern County up to Del Norte County We help with linkages to treatment services, transitional housing, pre-employment assistance, and more
Bakersfield
661-326-0485
530-830-1180
559-214-0264
916-564-4400
209-662-6073
DON’T KNOW WHERE TO START OR HAVE GENERAL QUESTIONS ABOUT OUR SERVICES?
559-251-4800 info ca@westcare com
As we celebrate Criminal Justice Month this March, I’d like to take a moment to reflect on the vital work we do at WestCare and the individuals we serve with our criminal justice programs Serving this population has beenapassionofmineforover25years,asIamlivingproofofwhatthese programscandoforjustice-involvedindividuals
WestCare California plays a major role in helping people transition from incarceration to flourishing members of their community Whether it’s one of our STOP participants being linked up from prison to behavioral health, housing, or job services, our DRC program that focuses on providing parolees with a place to seek employment, receive counseling, and build a resume, or our two FCRP programs that allows participants to spend the last few years of their sentences in a comprehensive program that includes addiction addiction counseling, mental health care, vocational training, and the ability to gain their education at all levels Participants are able to be employed in the community and they are readied for the transition into the communitywithnewconfidence,newdreams,andanewlife
We have partnered with the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) to provide these innovative programs Over the years, WestCare has cultivated strong relationships with our CDCR partners Given that 95% of all inmates in the California Prison System will be released, the services we providemakeCaliforniasafer,oneclientatatime Weunderstandthatreentryintosocietycanbeadaunting process Our services are designed to break down the barriers that often stand in the way of successful reintegration The biggest barrier for individuals reentering society is a lack of access to care, whether it is Substance Use Disorders (SUD) or mental health treatment services, employment and educational access, employers that are willing to hire a person with a criminal record, etc Many employers that have hired our participants often comment that our participants are some of the best employees they have Many of our participants come to work with a sense of gratitude and drive to succeed as they know what it is like to have everythingtakenawayfromthem
“At WestCare, we understand that the journey through the criminal justice system can be challenging,” said ourDRCteam, “but,webelieveinyourstrengthandresilience Everystepyoutaketowardspositivechange is a testament to your courage and determination Our team is here to support you, uplift your spirit, and provide the resources you need to rebuild your life Remember, your past does not define your future With the right support and a commitment to growth, you have the power to create a brighter, more hopeful tomorrow Keepmovingforward,andknowthatwearewithyoueverystepoftheway”
When we speak to the community, it’s our job to highlight the tangible differences these programs make We have fostered positive change in the lives of mothers who have reunited with their children after having their parental rights reinstated, empowering them with the parenting skills gained through our programs Similarly, we’ve supported individuals like a lifer who was granted a second chance at freedom and now serves as the Director of one of our state’s largest reentry programs The cost savings to the state are substantial Currently,itcostsCalifornia$138,000peryeartohouseaninmateintheprisonsystem,whileWestCarecan provide services at roughly half the cost Our programs not only lower recidivism rates but also transform lives This is a far cry from the old approach, where inmates were released with just $100 and a bus ticket back to their community without any real employment prospects or the tools needed to address the issues thatledtotheirincarcerationinthefirstplace
“Ourbiggestjobistobeasourceofsupportfortheclients,”saidtheFCRPSanDiegoteam,“manyofwhom may have never experienced this type of support or hope for them in their lives We give them a chance to learn how to change their thinking and change their behaviors We focus on fostering a sense of empowerment,buildingself-esteem,personalfreedom,andpowertomakechoices”
As we mark Criminal Justice Month this March, we take pride in the role we play in breaking down barriers and providing opportunities for transformation and empowerment The future of reentry services is promising withCaliforniaservingasamodelforotherstates Fundingforreentryserviceshasincreasedandthelinkage to MediCal ensures individuals reentering society have access to the support they need WestCare will remainattheforefrontofthisexpansion,continuouslyseekingnewandinnovativewaystoUplifttheHuman Spirit
Thank you for being part of this important mission Together, we are changing lives and making a lasting impactonthoseweserveandourcommunities
*Names and identifying information from testimonials
LIVES IMPACTED: Testimonials from our Participants
MARY,FCRP
ALEXA,STOP-AREA3
“WestCare offered classes every day to helpmecopewithmymentalhealthand my addiction. They gave me transportationtojobfairsandhelpedme with my ID and Social Security card. Because of STOP, I was able to get my high school diploma and I got my RADT (Registered Alcohol and Drug Tech). I’m currentlyenrolledincollegetoo!
STOP taught me that I had to change my way of thinking. I would like to tell someone that this program works and thatsometimes,weneedtogetridofour oldideasandbehaviorsandbewillingto do something new if we want to change ourlives.WestCarechangedmylifeand Iwillbeforevergrateful.”
ANTHONY,DRC
“Since being a part of FCRP, I’ve enrolled back into college and successfully completed three semesters while being a part of WestCare. On top of that, I haveajobnow.WestCarehasreallyhelpedmeimprovemytimemanagement, whichhasbeenessentialinbalancingeverything.
I’ve learned patience and discovered my inner self. I feel confident about my future. I’m about to be on parole in the next couple of weeks and I truly believe I’llbesuccessfulmovingforward.
There are definitely trials and tribulations - it has its ups and downs. But, like anythingelseinlife,youhavetostickwithit.It’sagoodprogramthathelpsyou buildasafeandpositivetransitionbackintosociety.”
“ThecounselorsattheDRChelpedmewith my housing and any time I had a problem, they were always available to talk and always provided positive advice and feedback. Without this program, the staff, and all the resources they offered me, I mighthaverelapsed.
The DRC allowed me to get into several programs that are allowing me to become self-sufficient and go at my own pace. If someone is thinking about participating in thisprogram,itwouldbethebestthingthey could do if they are serious about getting their life back on track. All the counselors have helped me change my life Everyone reallyhelpsoutandwantsyoutosucceed.”
JAMES,STOP-AREA3
“Ididn’tknowanythingaboutWestCarepriortothis.WestCareofferedmeacleanliving environmentwiththreemealsaday,andwehadcounselorsandtechsaroundtheclock forusinourtimeofneed.
Since I left WestCare, I have accomplished more now than ever. At 45, I just got my high school diploma, passed my RADT, and enrolled in college studying Business Admin.WestCaretaughtmethatifIwantedtobesomeonedifferentthanmypastself,I neededtodosomethingdifferent.
To anyone thinking about going to WestCare, I strongly encourage it. Today, I continue to visit with WestCare. This year has been an amazing journey for me. Thank you to WestCareforthepartyouplayedinchangingmylife.”
A PEEK INTO WHAT OUR WESTCARE CALIFORNIA PROJECTS ARE UP TO!
By Debbie Ockey, Volunteer, Wings Advocacy Fresno
Our dedicated team with Wings Advocacy Fresno, A Project of WestCare California,deliveredintheFresnoraintohomesthatneededus!
Our WestCare clients spent the day assisting with the delivering, setting up new apartments with their new furnishings, and even carried furniture up three flights of stairs! So much of the work we do is a team effort, but it makes us happy to see onceemptyhomesbefilledwithfurniturethatcanbeusedbyfamiliesastheystarta newchapterintheirlives
Ifyouhavenew/gentlyusedfurniture,linens,orkitchenitems,visitourwarehouseto dropthemoff Ourwarehouseislocatedat:
4323N SellandAve #105,Fresno,CA93722
Hours:Mondayfrom8am -12pm orSaturdayfrom9am -12pm Yourdonationsmakethepivotaldifferenceinchangingsomeonehouseintoahome!
The Living Room, A Project of WestCare California, hosted a fun Valentine’s Day BINGO event for their clients on Thursday, February 13th Titled the “HeartthrobYeehaw,”participantswereencouragedtocomedressedintheirbest “Country”outfitsforaplayfultwistontheholiday
A Valentine’s Day themed lunch was served, followed by sweet treats such as sugar cookies, cupcakes, candy, and other desserts After the meal, the fun continued with several rounds of BINGO, where excited players competed for variousprizes
ThiseventwasoneofseveralseasonalgatheringshostedbyTheLivingRoomto foster a sense of community among program participants Altogether, the “Heartthrob Yeehaw” event was a cheerful occasion filled with good food, laughter, and connection - creating a fun and supportive atmosphere for all involved
By Arturo Zuno, Client Service Navigator, The Living Room
Delivery In the Rain
Valentine’s Party and Bingo
ALUMNI CAR SHOW AT MLK RESIDENTIAL
By Norma Gonzalez, Program Coordinator, MLK Residential
Our recently established Alumni Group for our Residential and Outpatientprogramsorganizedandhostedoneoftheirfirstbigevents: a car show at MLK Residential! The group members met twice a monthtoensuresuccessfulplanningandwecouldn'tbemoreproudof how well it was executed The event featured a modest display of three cars and two motorcycles, live music from local rappers, testimonials, and lunch One of our alumni member's church generouslydonatedtacosandsnacksforallattendees
The day wasn’t just about the cars; it was about building connections and fostering support After the car show, the alumni group met to debrief, and one member shared that a client approached him to express gratitude for his speech The client revealed that they had been considering leaving the residential program but hearing the alumni's stories inspired and motivated them to stay This was so upliftingtohear!
If you are an alumni and would like to join future events or reconnect, pleasecontactusatinfoca@westcarecom We’dlovetohaveyou!
EMPLOYEE APPRECIATION DAY
AWARDS
CORE Awards are awarded on a monthly basis to staff who demonstrate Characteristics of Remarkable Employees (CORE). Please join us in commemorating our most recent CORE Award recipients for the category of Organization: Vanessa A. Verlena G.
Briana G. Christina M. Ciana T. Crystal C.
Devin S. Jessica H.
