The Michelson 20MM Foundation proudly supports the Torero Urban Scholars’ (TUS) new Transfer Coalition Initiative (TCI) through a 2024 Smart Justice Spark Grant. Their innovative project aims to break down barriers to higher education for systems-impacted individuals, creating a cohesive regional network of support for incarcerated and formerly incarcerated learners. 

A Collaborative, Unified Approach to Reentry Education

The TCI is transforming reentry education with a unified, collaborative approach. Historically, reentry education efforts have been fragmented, with limited connections between correctional facilities, higher education institutions, and community resources. TCI addresses this challenge by creating a formalized, unified network connecting key players, ensuring students receive the comprehensive support they need to thrive academically. 

“The Transfer Coalition Initiative is about more than access to education; it’s about creating a sustainable, interconnected system of support for students at every stage of their journey,” said Kenia Miranda Vergudo, Smart Justice Program Manager. “By building partnerships between correctional facilities, colleges, and community organizations, TCI sets a new standard for what reentry education can and should be.”

Building a Pathway to Higher Education

TCI’s reach extends beyond the classroom, recognizing that system-impacted students face multiple challenges–housing instability, social stigma, and the need for mentorship to name a few. By providing wraparound services such as academic advising and housing support, TCI ensures that students can focus on their studies without the added stress of navigating these barriers alone. 

The key to TCI’s program is its emphasis on fostering a sense of community. Through events such as resource fairs, networking opportunities, and campus tabling at both correctional facilities and local colleges, TCI helps students build connections with peers and mentors who share their experiences. This community-building approach is essential for long-term success, as it helps reduce stigma and create a support network of like-minded individuals. 

A Regional Network with National Potential

What sets TCI apart is its potential for scalability and focus on early intervention with youth. The initiative builds on the successful collaboration between 12 higher education reentry programs in San Diego County, including the University of California, San Diego’s Underground Scholars, San Diego State University’s Project Rebound, and the Rising Scholars Network. By creating a regional coalition, TCI is establishing a model that can be replicated across other areas of California and, eventually, nationwide. 

“The impact of TCI will be transformative,” Kenia shared. “As this model grows, it can influence broader policy changes that remove barriers to higher education for justice-impacted individuals. This is an opportunity to reshape how our society supports those who have been incarcerated, moving from punitive to restorative and preventative practices.”

Leveraging Technology for Greater Reach

To amplify its impact, TCI is developing a regional online toolkit. The digital resource hub will offer essential tools, best practices, and information. Available to both students and educators, the hub will facilitate collaboration and ensure participants are equipped with the knowledge to succeed. The toolkit will also allow for easy sharing of resources and strategies, making it possible to scale TCI’s impact beyond San Diego. 

Fostering Long-Term Impact on Social Mobility

TCI’s long-term goal is to help system-impacted individuals achieve social mobility through higher education. Students consistently show that educational access significantly reduces recidivism rates and promotes successful reintegration. By expanding access to college programs, TCI provides students with the tools needed to build successful futures. We are proud to support their bold approach to reentry education, one that combines innovation, collaboration, and equity.

---

About Michelson 20MM

Michelson 20MM is a private, nonprofit foundation working toward equity for underserved and historically underrepresented communities by expanding access to educational and employment opportunities, increasing affordability of educational programs, and ensuring the necessary supports are in place for individuals to thrive. To do so, we work in the following verticals: Digital Equity, Intellectual Property, Smart Justice, Student Basic Needs, and Open Educational Resources (OER). Co-chaired and funded by Alya and Gary Michelson, Michelson 20MM is part of the Michelson Philanthropies network of foundations.

To sign up for our newsletter, click here. 

By Kenia Miranda Verdugo

Every year, California’s wildfires ravage communities and are fought by unsung heroes: incarcerated firefighters. Often trained in fire camps, incarcerated firefighters work tirelessly on the frontlines to protect communities and land. Despite their civil service, they face enormous obstacles translating their skills into civilian firefighting jobs. The Michelson 20MM Foundation is proud to continue our support of incarcerated firefighters and shed light on the ways we can provide the second chance they deserve.  

A Brief History of Incarcerated Firefighters in California

Since World War II, incarcerated individuals have played a vital role in California’s firefighting capability. The creation of “fire camps” in the 1970s, however, expanded the program under the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR). Through fire camps, incarcerated individuals are trained to fight fires, perform search and rescue missions, and assist with emergency services. In exchange for their work, fire camp participants earn reduced sentences and credits toward early release.

As Californians actively track the containment rate of fires, many do not realize that incarcerated firefighters are being exploited and face challenges after the fire season. Through the arrangement, the state gains access to a reliable and low-cost workforce. In fact, it is estimated that fire camps save the state $100M a year. Although they provide a vital resource to save lives and protect property in hazardous conditions, the incarcerated firefighters’ pay is minimal. An incarcerated firefighter is paid well below minimum wage, typically between $5.80 and $10.24 a day—making their labor one of the most exploitative elements of California’s prison system.

January 2025 brought unprecedented destruction to the state, with incarcerated firefighters playing a key role in controlling the devastation—despite their unjust wages. CalFire estimates that there have been over 300 wildland fires this year alone. This includes the Palisades and Eaton fires, which were two of the state’s deadliest and most destructive fires to date. Ending the destruction and containing the 50,000+ acres burned statewide would not have been possible without incarcerated firefighters. In fact, over 1,100 incarcerated firefighters risked their lives last month. As these public safety heroes return from the fire camps, however, they will face barriers of their own.

The Barriers to Reentry: Challenges for Incarcerated Firefighters Upon Release

In addition to the low pay, many formerly incarcerated firefighters face significant barriers transitioning to a permanent career in civilian firefighting. Legal and institutional factors compound the barriers to reentry. This creates a complicated landscape for individuals who have the skills but are still marked by their criminal history.

Criminal Records and Employment Discrimination

The most immediate obstacle is the stigma associated with having a criminal record. California has made strides to reduce employment discrimination against formerly incarcerated individuals. Notably, this was reflected in the passage of laws, such as the California Fair Chance Act. Even with legislative frameworks in place, many public and private agencies are reluctant to hire someone with a conviction. 

Licensing and Certification

Formerly incarcerated individuals must also navigate a complex web of licensing requirements. California’s fire service certification system is stringent, including various levels of training, testing, and qualifications. Unfortunately, the training and hands-on experience fire camp participants received does not automatically translate into the required certifications.

For example, many fire departments require firefighters to complete additional certifications, such as becoming Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT). This requirement may present significant hurdles for formerly incarcerated individuals. Each certification necessitates financial means, resources, stability, and time to complete after release. 

Limited Access to Resources and Support

Prior to beginning their career, formerly incarcerated firefighters need to secure stable housing, access mental health care, and obtain reliable transportation. Lining up these resources can be riddled with additional barriers, particularly for fire camp participants who were incarcerated for long periods.

Limited Pathways to Reemployment

Although incarcerated firefighters have a track record of helping stop destructive blazes, one of the greatest paradoxes is how they also find it difficult to enter the firefighting profession upon release. The notion that a seasoned wildland firefighter would be turned away from the job after release seems counterintuitive. It is, however, a systemic issue deeply rooted in how criminal justice and labor laws intersect.

Recent Efforts to Break Down the Barriers and Potential Solutions

Recognizing these challenges and the heroism of incarcerated firefighters, there have been growing calls for reform. Some advocates argue that California’s fire camp system must be restructured to support a smoother transition upon release. The potential solutions primarily fall into three areas: 1) expanding firefighting certifications; 2) reducing the stimaga of criminal records; and 3) supporting resources for reentry.

Expanding Firefighting Certifications

Recognizing and streamlining the certification process for incarcerated firefighters would be a step in the right direction. California lawmakers, fire organizations, and advocates are looking into ways incarcerated firefighters can more easily transfer their experience into civilian certifications. Efforts to create pathways that credit the training received in fire camps could ease the transition to permanent firefighting positions. As an example of this, the Michelson Center for Public Policy sponsored AB 1908 in 2022, a bill that sought to provide firefighting certifications for incarcerated firefighters.

Reducing the Stigma of Criminal Records

To address the stigma associated with criminal records, further legislative action could create hiring incentives. These incentives would be given to fire departments that onboard formerly incarcerated individuals and provide financial support or training grants. As a result, the workforce gap will be filled, formerly incarcerated individuals receive stable employment, and recidivism is reduced.

Support and Resources for Reentry

For five years, Michelson 20MM has supported reentry programs that are specifically tailored to the unique needs of incarcerated firefighters. The Forestry and Fire Recruitment Program (FFRP), a multi-year Spark Grantee, is a true example of this. They provide formerly incarcerated individuals with a pathway to careers in firefighting and forestry management. Through hands-on training, education, and mentorship, FFRP helps participants gain the skills and certifications needed to pursue a career in fire management, while also offering reentry support. It bridges the gap between the valuable firefighting experience gained in prison fire camps and civilian firefighting opportunities. Ultimately, the program offers a second chance for both career advancement and personal rehabilitation, serving as a scalable model for the state

A Call for Change in California

The state’s incarcerated firefighters have proven themselves to be brave, capable, and committed individuals. By addressing the barriers to reentry, we can help create a system that acknowledges their service, supports rehabilitation, and benefits society. As a result, experienced, trained firefighters will work where they are needed most. Supporting formerly incarcerated firefighters isn’t just about second chances—it’s about building a safer, stronger California for everyone.

---

About Michelson 20MM

Michelson 20MM is a private, nonprofit foundation working toward equity for underserved and historically underrepresented communities by expanding access to educational and employment opportunities, increasing affordability of educational programs, and ensuring the necessary supports are in place for individuals to thrive. To do so, we work in the following verticals: Digital Equity, Intellectual Property, Smart Justice, Student Basic Needs, and Open Educational Resources (OER). Co-chaired and funded by Alya and Gary Michelson, Michelson 20MM is part of the Michelson Philanthropies network of foundations.

To sign up for our newsletter, click here. 

The Michelson 20MM Foundation awarded a Smart Justice Spark Grant to the Healing & Justice Center. The center supports Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) individuals, communities, and organizations by creating safe, healing spaces through tailored programs and services. They also offer advocacy initiatives that promote sustainable healing and justice practices. Through the Spark Grant, they will develop a three-month curriculum for justice-impacted parents, host a pilot program, and analyze its impact.

Innovative Solutions to Break the Cycle of Unhealed Trauma

The Healing & Justice Center is transforming lives by addressing the trauma and systemic barriers faced by individuals impacted by the criminal justice system. “The center recognizes that those who experience trauma as children tend to continue the trauma cycle as adults,” Kenia Miranda Verdugo, Smart Justice Program Manager, reflected. “They’re actively helping parents recognize their triggers, build emotional resilience, and heal their relationships with their children. We’re excited to see the positive effects of healing on multiple generations impacted by the justice system.”

To do so, the center uses innovative trauma-informed programs, such as Parenting Beyond Walls. The program includes a foundational practical workbook, which will soon be digitized. Through it, parents can undergo step-by-step exercises to enhance their grounding techniques, communication skills, resilience, and regulation. As a result, the workbook helps parents continue their healing journey outside of classroom lessons. 

In addition to the workbook, the Healing & Justice Center also offers parent support groups. These groups, both in-person and virtual, help parents build a support network as they transition back into their communities and families. As a result, parents have the tools to continue working on their emotional wellness and relationships post-release. 

Scaling Compassionate Parenting Throughout California

The Healing & Justice Center hopes to expand to both men’s and women’s correctional facilities across California, using data-driven insights to refine and scale their programs. By addressing cycles of unhealed intergenerational trauma, their work fosters healthier communities, prevents violence, reduces systemic inequities, and supports brighter futures. 

---

About the Michelson 20MM Foundation

Michelson 20MM is a private, nonprofit foundation working toward equity for underserved and historically underrepresented communities by expanding access to educational and employment opportunities, increasing affordability of educational programs, and ensuring the necessary supports are in place for individuals to thrive. To do so, we work in the following verticals: Digital Equity, Intellectual Property, Smart Justice, Student Basic Needs, and Open Educational Resources (OER). Co-chaired and funded by Alya and Gary Michelson, Michelson 20MM is part of the Michelson Philanthropies network of foundations.

To sign up for our newsletter, click here. 

Michelson 20MM is proud to continue supporting Impact Justice’s important work in the smart justice space by awarding them a 2024 Michelson Spark Grant. Through the Spark Grant, they will create pathways to higher education for justice-involved youth. The grant will fund the launch of the California Justice Leaders Postsecondary Pathways Program (CJLP3), a new initiative that builds on our prior investment in their California Justice Leaders (CJL) program and takes it to new heights by directly addressing the needs of young people incarcerated or recently released. 

Building on a Strong Foundation: The CJL Program

In 2019, funded in part by a Spark Grant, Impact Justice launched the CJL program, an AmeriCorps initiative designed to serve justice-impacted young adults. Through the program, CJL members—credible messengers who have lived experience with the justice system—work as reentry navigators in nonprofit organizations, providing mentorship, advocacy, and direct support to those who are currently and formerly incarcerated.

Five years later, CJL has grown into a powerful network of over 100 members. “Seeing the California Justice Leaders program continue to grow since Michelson 20MM’s initial investment has demonstrated the power of their community-based model,” Kenia Miranda Verdugo, Smart Justice Program Manager shared. “As CJL continues to scale, it’s clear that the next logical step is expanding into educational access for budding minds. That’s where the Postsecondary Pathways Program (CJLP3) comes into play.”

Expanding Access to Higher Education: The CJLP3 Initiative

The new CJLP3 program addresses a critical gap for youth involved in the justice system. CJLP3 focuses on “secure track” youth, up to age 25, who are incarcerated or recently released and facing extended sentences for serious offenses. The program helps juvenile judges and other justice-system actors leverage educational opportunities as sentencing solutions.

“By ensuring that educational success is recognized by the justice system, we open the door for young people to reintegrate into society as educated, skilled individuals who can successfully reintegrate into their communities,” Kenia reflected. 

What Makes CJLP3 Innovative?

1. Create Bridges Between Education and Justice Systems: CJLP3 recognizes the discretion juvenile justice judges have when it comes to the future of incarcerated youth. They can even consider rehabilitation and education as forms of sentence relief. By fostering communication between judges, other court officials, and higher educational institutions, CJLP3 will ensure that the educational progress of incarcerated youth is safeguarded.
2. Scale a Proven Model: Building on the success of the Laney College’s Restoring our Communities (ROC) model in Alameda County, CJLP3 will scale the effort statewide. By embedding these practices within CJL’s network of over 60 members, the program can help hundreds of young people navigate the complexities of higher education while incarcerated and during reentry.
3. Conduct a Landscape Analysis: The CJLP3 Program Manager will conduct a landscape analysis of the judges, institutions for higher education, and detention facilities in the counties where CJL members currently operate. This will be used to empower members as they begin developing professional working relationships with these institutions. 

Leveraging Previous Success for Greater Impact

Michelson 20MM is excited to continue our partnership with Impact Justice. We are confident that this new program will further advance equitable opportunities for those impacted by the justice system. 

---

About the Michelson 20MM Foundation

Michelson 20MM is a private, nonprofit foundation working toward equity for underserved and historically underrepresented communities by expanding access to educational and employment opportunities, increasing affordability of educational programs, and ensuring the necessary supports are in place for individuals to thrive. To do so, we work in the following verticals: Digital Equity, Intellectual Property, Smart Justice, Student Basic Needs, and Open Educational Resources (OER). Co-chaired and funded by Alya and Gary Michelson, Michelson 20MM is part of the Michelson Philanthropies network of foundations.

To sign up for our newsletter, click here. 

By Kenia Miranda Verdugo

As 2024 draws to a close, we reflect on the progress made towards a more equitable, data-driven criminal justice system. This year, the Michelson 20MM Foundation made remarkable progress.  We created and expanded pathways to educational attainment, employment, and economic opportunities. Throughout this, we remained committed to fairness, innovation, and opportunity. Our bold steps implemented smart justice solutions that have impacted communities, policymakers, and the broader justice reform movement.

Celebrating Two Cycles of Spark Grantees

This calendar year featured two Smart Justice Spark Grants cycles. 

The 2023 Spark Grantees—Homeboy Industries, Cal State LA, and UCR LIFTED—launched several impactful projects. 

• –Homeboy Industries hosted an educational summit, creating a community of learning. During the summit, they shared their proven structured framework for the Pathways to College model. This framework allowed attending organizations to replicate and tailor the program for their communities. 
• –Project Rebound at California State University, Los Angeles, expanded the Career Equity Pathways project into the California Institute for Women (CIW). The program provides face-to-face leadership and career training to currently and formerly incarcerated students.
• –The University of California Riverside (UCR) built upon the success of UC Irvine’s LIFTED program by offering their own Bachelor of Arts (BA) pathway. They will create materials for any California State University (CSU) or UC campus that would like to provide a BA pathway in prison. A series of animated videos will support the transfer and admission process. These videos will be available online and in the education room at California state prisons for students to check out. 

We recently concluded the 2024 Spark Grant cycle and were pleased to welcome the 2024 Spark Grantees: the Healing & Justice Center, Impact Justice, Indigenous Justice, and Torero Urban Scholar’s Transfer Coalition Initiative. This cycle will fund several important projects that:

• -Support mothers reentering society. This year-long pilot program will offer compassionate parenting strategies, support groups, and emotional wellness resources to help mothers strengthen their bonds with their children. 
• -Work with judges, higher education institutions, and detention facilities in 10 counties, helping youth access educational opportunities while navigating the juvenile justice system. 
• -Serve 14 tribes and reduce multi-generational recidivism. This will be done by providing culturally specific services and training Indigenous leaders to advocate for alternatives to incarceration.
• -Support youth transitioning from juvenile incarceration to college. This will create a unified system for reentry education in San Diego, connecting higher education institutions, correctional facilities, and community services. 

Forming Career Pathways, Investing in Communities, and Recognizing the Success of Incarcerated Students

In March, we attended our partner, the Forestry and Fire Recruitment Program’s (FFRP’s) ribbon cutting. This new program prepares system-impacted individuals, including transitional youth, for careers in the fire service throughout LA County.

In April, we attended a funders’ convening in Fresno. There, we learned about the needs and scarce resources in the Central Valley. This region is often overlooked and has had a history of a prison ecosystem, which ultimately allowed for tough-on-crime policies and high policing throughout the region. 

Our partner, UCI LIFTED, celebrated their first graduation, graduating 23 incarcerated students. They also created a peer mentorship program through which Underground Scholars students at UC Irvine mentor the UCI LIFTED students. This program has had a significant impact. LIFTED students see themselves beyond the carceral institutions as students who belong on campus and have a network of empathetic mentors.

Continuing a Culture of Learning and Best Practices

This year, we expanded on the Pathways From Prison to College In Action series. We highlighted organizations across the state doing great work aligned with California’s Best Practices: Pathways From Prison to College. We also hosted webinars that highlighted learnings from Homeboy Industries, learnings from UC Bachelor programs, organizations in the Central Valley, and organizations that support incarcerated women.

Our sister foundation, the Michelson Center for Public Policy, celebrated a legislative win this year. They joined the Gate Money Coalition, including Root & Rebound, Initiate Justice, Legal Services for Prisoners with Children, and All of Us or None. The coalition advocated for shifting clothing and transportation costs onto CDCR, allowing incarcerated individuals to keep their entire gate money amount. Senator Becker championed this budget effort, we are grateful for his leadership as this effort was successful in securing $1.8 million for clothing and transportation costs.

None of the success would be possible without our partners, grantees, and advocates. Thank you to the hundreds of individuals who joined our fight for a smarter, fairer, and more just justice system. Together, we’ve shown that working with data, compassion, and evidence-based policies leads to transformative changes.

As we close 2024, we feel gratitude and optimism towards the work ahead. The momentum is building, and we are just getting started.

Together, we will continue pushing for justice that serves everyone.

---

About the Michelson 20MM Foundation

Michelson 20MM is a private, nonprofit foundation working toward equity for underserved and historically underrepresented communities by expanding access to educational and employment opportunities, increasing affordability of educational programs, and ensuring the necessary supports are in place for individuals to thrive. To do so, we work in the following verticals: Digital Equity, Intellectual Property, Smart Justice, Student Basic Needs, and Open Educational Resources (OER). Co-chaired and funded by Alya and Gary Michelson, Michelson 20MM is part of the Michelson Philanthropies network of foundations.

To sign up for our newsletter, click here.