John,

“Soon, when all is well, you’re going to look back on this period of your life and be so glad you never gave up.” 

These are the words that Ernesto Sanchez, a formerly incarcerated man who paroled from prison less than a year ago, shared with recent ARC Hope and Redemption Team (HART) graduates. Our HART program – a group of formerly incarcerated ARC staff members who go back inside prison and mentor people currently sentenced to life in prison – experienced tremendous success this fall at Pleasant Valley State Prison.

Providing hope to people facing life sentences matter. 

Six cohorts of HART programming, totaling 85 incarcerated people, proudly received certificates from ARC. The six cohorts of participants completed rigorous courses in Emotional Intelligence, Board Preparation, and Criminal & Gang-members Anonymous. The graduations brought together family members, ARC staff and PVSP staff – the communities that reflect the necessary support systems needed for transformative rehabilitation.  

Incarcerated people who go through our HART program are less likely to go back inside prison once they are released. John, any gift you make today will help lower recidivism rates throughout California.

ARC Life Coach, Kenny Johnson, presented the certificates during ceremonies that happened over the course of several days.

These graduations at Pleasant Valley State Prison serve as a testament to the success of our programs and the positive impact they have on the lives of those striving for rehabilitation. Join us in the movement of providing hope inside by making a gift before 2023 comes to a close.

“I am often truly amazed at the power of second chances. When I see these men changing their lives for the better and succeeding, I am shown what can be done when people are given opportunities” 
-ARC Life Coach Kenny Johnson

Thank you as always for your support and your belief in second chances...as Kenny said, it is powerful.  

Sincerely, 

Sam Lewis 

Executive Director 
Anti-Recidivism Coalition