San Quentin prison has been called many things over the years. But, “the most progressive prison in California?” Yes, it is, according to Chris Redlitz, an entrepreneur, activist and co-founder of “The Last Mile” program at the famous correctional institution.
Frustrated that the California state budget spends an almost equal amount on incarcerating its residents as it does on higher education, Redlitz sought to develop a solution that would give inmates a chance to succeed when they are released, thereby reducing the state’s recidivism rate ( between 65 - 70 percent) and save taxpayers money.
The Last Mile program is comprised of a small, carefully screened group of inmates who already have a strong educational background. The inmates in the program are nominated by their peers and the prison administrators.
The goal of The Last Mile program is “to train selected inmates for eventual employment in a paid internship program within the Silicon Valley technology sector,” which is easier said than done when inmates are not allowed access to computers. Not to be discouraged, the creators of The Last Mile program arranged for the participants to use “tweet sheets’ where they write out their questions and answers for Twitter by hand, according to a recent BBC report, which adds that the program is designed “ to educate inmates about social media, technology and entrepreneurship.”
Additionally, the social network Quora has teamed up with The Last Mile program, and has given each inmate participant in the program a profile on its website. click here to go to website
The Last Mile program teaches inmates the skills and marketing tools they will need to obtain a job in the technology field when they are released. The descriptions of the topics covered by the program, as listed on the Last Mile website are:
The Evolving Digital Marketplace
Provide a background about how the world of communication and expression has changed dramatically over the last 10 years through new technology platforms and social media. We will study the ever changing digital landscape and how to utilize technology for personal and professional benefit.
Building a Knowledge Base
An ongoing curriculum of reading that will provide a solid background for business, personal growth, and business inspiration. The group will discuss the books and any specific insights.
Practical Technology Training
Provide basic computer training in the critical software tools that are utilized in today’s business sector. Access to the internet is NOT required for this training.
Guest Advisors
Invite advisors with specific domain expertise to present to the group with informative and inspirational information.
Building Your Dream Business
Learn how to transform an idea into a business plan and presentation. The goal is to provide the opportunity for each participant to formulate an idea and prepare a presentation to effectively communicate their idea to a prospective business partner. The final session will include business presentations (demo day) by the participants to an invited outside panel.
That San Quentin allows The Last Mile, as well as other programs created to help inmates succeed, behind their walls, is indeed “progressive.” But, it takes progressive minds to create such programs, and Chris Reditz and his team should be given kudos for providing a real solution to the double-edged sword of recidivism and lack of jobs that has plagued formerly incarcerated people throughout the country for decades.
|
