HWOP

 This is an educational class for inmates of all proficiencies of American Sign Language. The facilitators are all deaf inmates fluent in ASL. This group is for inmates interested in ASL, and current inmate students of ASL college program, to practice their ASL skills and receive peer support and tutoring.    

Wish List: ASL texts

This is a guided imagery music program based on the Bonny Method. The objective is to create a healing and therapeutic environment; to provide inmate participants with the education to develop musical skills and develop a deeper understanding of themselves. This program helps  stimulate through music, the intuitive and creative potential for healing and transformation. 

Founder: Carey Neloms/paroled 2021 

HEOP's goals are to extend compassion and kindness to all; bridging the gaps between mentally ill and non-mentally ill inmates so better communication and understanding can be developed. 

Wish List: On-going support of indoor engagement items to include coloring books, crayons, puzzles, board games. 

Founder: Frank Vaughn/paroled 2019

Meditation has been known to help individuals be less impulsive, less reactive, and create a sense of calm within themselves; it teaches inmates the tools needed to navigate their daily challenges that are part of the prison life. This meditation group is held every Saturday at 6 p.m. in the prison's multi-faith chapel.

Founder: Erik Menendez

Art Credit: Erik Menendez

Copyright: HWOP

 This  has a 21 week curriculum using the Lotus principle working on developing trust, confidence and belief in one self, relapse prevention plans etc. Facilitated by inmate leaders.  

 Wish List:  Curricular supplies 

 LCH is founded on the pillars of Acceptance, Cooperation, Education, and Public Goodwill. This program and fellowship utilizes these principles in order to benefit and enrich the handicapped, elderly, and informed, and encourage deeper awareness, gratitude, and empathy within all participants and the general population. 

Founder: Erik Menendez

The purpose of Twelve Step  and Insight Meditation program is to familiarize participants with the elements of addiction and the process of recovery through the Twelve Step program and Insight Meditation. The curriculum covers the cycle of addiction, primary and secondary symptoms of developmental trauma, addictive, obsessive and compulsive behavior, and introduces and discusses each of the Twelve Steps. Additionally, because mindful meditation has been shown to significantly reduce drug and alcohol relapse, participants will be introduced to the practice of meditation, and will learn how to use meditation skills when exposed to internal and environmental triggers for relapse.

Founders: Kevin Driscoll & Erik Menendez

The purpose of VIVE-Victim Impact & Victim Empathy for Vulnerable Populations is to help offenders recognize the unique needs and vulnerabilities of these populations and to develop enhanced empathy through their new awareness. The elderly, disabled, infirm and other disadvantaged populations are often victimized in subtle and unseen ways. When they are victimized, their path through the criminal justice system and into recovery faces unique challenges. For offenders, a part of the amends process is to connect with that suffering and understand how victimization impacts these especially vulnerable populations.

Founder: Erik Menendez

Coming soon, our news magazine from Echo yard journalists! 

Editor in Chief: Tran, Johnny.