The Last Mile opened their doors to showcase new learning platforms, partnerships, and program expansions that will lead to successful reintegration for people after they leave prison.
Invited world-renowned guests included keynote speaker and founder of Dave’s Killer Bread, Dave Dahl, Co-founder of Death Row Records, Michael Harris, and emcee of the event Chris Redlitz.
Several formerly incarcerated alums of TLM’s earlier cohorts visited to see the new digs and shared their journey in and outside of prison.
The showcase highlighted a new tech-enabled instruction platform, partnership exploration spaces, collaboration labs, and student project areas provided by TLM, California Correctional Training and Rehabilitation Authority instructors, and the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.
Kevin McCracken, Executive Director of TLM announced the launch of TLM’s service delivery platform, discussed the remote instruction process available to students, and introduced the project management secure platform. He said the new platform will allow students to receive timely responses to service requests using the Canvas-like platform.
“Our version of Canvas is lighter and more secure,” said McCracken. “Our goal is to not only offer hope but opportunity to those coming from the same place.”
Sierra Robinson, conducted a live demonstration of a real AI model during a presentation session. The new model and curriculum will allow students to gain updated industry technical skills for reintegration back into society.
TLM has also partnered with the largest provider of service dogs, Canine Companions.
Executive Director Kristen Dombrowski said the partnership will support the handlers who raise and train puppies in the program.
“Part of that meaningful work happens right here at San Quentin, where puppies are raised by dedicated handlers in this community,” said Dombrowski. “I am proud to share that just last week, the 25th puppy to be raised here successfully transitioned to a volunteer home.”
TLM is converting the Canine Companions entire puppy-raising curriculum into a digital model platform that will allow handlers to progress through the material at a structured pace.
“Through the platform, we will be able to track individual progress, administer assessments, and maintain clear records of each handler’s training,” Dombrowski said.
Another partnership TLM announced was one with GAF Roofing Academy. Roderick Colvin, Sr. took the stage to announce a collaboration program that will train people interested in learning roofing.
After the presentations, guests were offered a tour of the new learning center.
