A Nationally Recognized Partnership for Positive Change

Family Assistance Program’s grant-funded PROWD (Partners for Reentry Opportunities in Workforce Development) initiative and Next Step program are making a meaningful difference at FCC Victorville. Through an active and engaging partnership, the Adelanto federal prison system has received national recognition for its efforts and involvement with PROWD. 

“Through our partnership, I have witnessed firsthand the positive impact Family Assistance Program has had on our institution, our staff, our inmate population, and, most importantly, the families they serve,” wrote FCC Victorville’s Assistant Supervisor of Education, Jeremy Karam. 

As expressed by Karam, “The Federal Bureau of Prisons is committed to preparing incarcerated individuals for successful reintegration through evidence-based programming, personal accountability, and positive community engagement. Strengthening healthy family relationships is an essential part of that mission, and Family Assistance Program has become a valuable community partner in advancing this goal.” 

With these commitments in mind, FCC Victorville has provided opportunities for inmates and their families to connect, such as father-daughter dances and a recorded reading program in which children are provided with a book and a recording of their incarcerated parent reading that book. “What you have to realize,” stated Shelly Hazelton, Family Assistance Program’s PROWD Program Manager, “is that even though the parent did the crime, the whole family is experiencing the punishment, which can have profound effects on the community.” 

The focus on positive family engagement and services provided to incarcerated individuals has benefits extending beyond the prison walls and into the community. Currently, former inmates who have participated in the program have a non-recidivism rate of 95%. This is hopeful, considering that, according to the U.S. Government Accountability Office, about 45% of people released from federal prison are rearrested within three years. 

Karam attributes this success, in part, to joint efforts that consistently go above and beyond to support education, strengthen programs, and ensure individuals have access to meaningful opportunities and resources.

A Legacy of Service: Celebrating Our Board Treasurer

Patti Tate is one of Family Assistance Program’s longest-serving board members, contributing more than 11 years of dedicated service and currently serving as Board Treasurer. She strongly believes in the agency’s mission to empower individuals and families and continues to be inspired by the resilience of those it serves.

A longtime High Desert resident, Patti has worked in real estate for more than 20 years and currently serves as Director of Operations at Majestic Land. Before beginning her career in real estate, she taught English at Lucerne Valley Middle School and Apple Valley High School.

Patti is also actively involved in several charitable efforts, including the Don Ferrarese Charitable Foundation and the Santa’s Sleigh program, which she has supported for more than 20 years.

Throughout her time on the board, Patti has witnessed Family Assistance Program’s continued growth and expanding impact throughout the community. Her experience, dedication, and commitment to serving others make her an invaluable member of the organization.

“I am especially proud of the agency’s staff and leadership, whose passion and compassion continue to make a positive difference in the lives of others.”-Patti Tate, Family Assistance Program Board Treasurer.

Licensed to Make a Difference

Family Assistance Program is proud to celebrate Kenneth Weeks, Director of Staff Development and Coaching, on earning his Marriage and Family Therapy license.

Ken brings more than 30 years of leadership experience across the nonprofit and for-profit sectors. His background includes social services, program development, human resources, operations management, and organizational change. 

As a compassionate, trauma-informed leader, he is committed to supporting staff development, strengthening community partnerships, and ensuring programs effectively respond to participant needs; making Ken an imperative asset to the organization and community!

Empowering Women Through Leadership and Reentry Support

On August 27, 2026, Family Assistance Program staff members attended the Sister Warriors Leadership Development Program graduation at the California Institution for Women.

During this event, they connected with participants, provided in-reach services, and shared information about Family Assistance Program’s Next Step program and available resources.

The graduation also provided an opportunity to recognize the participants’ accomplishments and celebrate their commitment to personal growth and leadership development. Programs such as Sister Warriors can help participants strengthen their confidence, develop valuable skills, and prepare for future success.

The event offered a valuable opportunity to build relationships, provide support, and connect justice-impacted women with reentry services designed to assist them in making a successful transition back into the community.