Prison to Purpose: Building Futures Behind Bars is a podcast presented by the California Correctional Training and Rehabilitation Authority (CALCTRA) that explores the transformative power of job training and rehabilitation within California's state prisons.
Prison to Purpose sheds light on pathways to personal growth, accountability, and opportunity—demonstrating how purpose-driven rehabilitation can strengthen individuals, families, and communities across California. This podcast highlights the life-changing career development programs CALCTRA offers to incarcerated individuals.
CALCTRA prioritizes rehabilitation through vocational programs and supporting second chances, while training participants to produce quality products and services for its customers. Thousands of incarcerated individuals have received valuable job training through CALCTRA, and many graduates have successful careers. A University of California, Irvine study found that CALCTRA participants have a 15% return-to-custody rate after three years, meaning 85% do not return to prison.
Follow real stories of transformation. Where rehabilitation meets real-world work and second chances.
A Foundation for the Future: Vera Marin’s CALCTRA Success Story
In this episode of Prison to Purpose: Building Futures Behind Bars, we sit down with success story Vera Marin, who graduated from the CALCTRA Pre-Apprentice Carpentry program at the California Institution for Women (CIW). Vera shares her journey through the skills and confidence she gained while participating in CALCTRA’s job training programs, and the impact these opportunities have had on her life. Her story highlights the power of hands-on job training, determination, and access to meaningful career pathways in building a foundation for a brighter future. Join us as Vera reflects on her experience and demonstrates how job training, and second chances can open doors to new possibilities and lasting success.
Watch and listen to new episodes of Prison to Purpose: Building Futures Behind Bars every other Tuesday and follow us on social media.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CALCTRA/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calctra/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CALCTRA
6 Oct 2026
From Apprenticeship to Impact: Second Chances with the Carpenters Union
In this inspiring episode, we
sit down with Alexander Hampton, a former CALCTRA graduate whose journey from
incarceration to the North Coast States Carpenters Union is a powerful story of
second chances. After graduating from CALCTRA’s Career Technical
Education Pre-Apprentice Carpentry program at Folsom State Prison, Alexander
returned to his community in 2008 and immediately began building a new future
through the Carpenters Union as a first-period apprentice. Alexander shares how
that prison program provided more than just hands-on job training, it gave him
a positive foundation to change his life. Hear how he was able to build a
career, purchase his own home, and provide for his mother. His story is a
powerful reminder of what can happen when individuals are given the skills,
opportunity, and support to build a better future.
Watch and listen to new
episodes of Prison to Purpose: Building Futures Behind Bars every other Tuesday
and follow us on social media.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CALCTRA/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calctra/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CALCTRA
22 Sept 2026
Families of Incarcerated: Stories of Hope, Strength, and Love
In this episode of Prison to Purpose, we shift the
focus to the families whose lives are deeply impacted by incarceration. Meet
David and Sharronda, two family members with different journeys but a shared
commitment to hope, resilience, and unwavering support. Through their personal
stories, they offer an honest look at the challenges of loving someone who is
in prison, the emotional toll of separation, and the strength it takes to keep
moving forward. Their experiences provide encouragement for others walking a
similar path while highlighting the vital role families play in rehabilitation.
Whether you have a loved one who is incarcerated or simply want to better
understand the human side of incarceration, this conversation offers compassion,
perspective, and hope. Join us as we explore the power of family, the
importance of connection, and the reminder that no one walks this journey
alone.
Watch and listen to new episodes of Prison to Purpose:
Building Futures Behind Bars every other Tuesday and follow us on social media.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CALCTRA/ (https://www.facebook.com/CALCTRA/)
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calctra/ (https://www.instagram.com/calctra/)
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CALCTRA (https://www.youtube.com/@CALCTRA)
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Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
4 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
4 ratings
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