THE TURN

The Turn offers students who have received disciplinary infractions an opportunity to attend the program as a form of restorative practices in lieu of a suspension.  Staff and parents/guardians are also encouraged to identify individuals they believe need additional support and would benefit from the program.

The Turn primarily targets male youth to participate in group discussions led in partnership by one of the formerly incarcerated lead “Turn” teachers, who served 18 or more years in prison and a retired officer who owns a local security company.  Including guest presenters.  During the circular group discussions, students receive direct support around current issues they are facing, reflecting on why they are making some of the choices that led them to this point.  The program concludes with a visit to San Quentin Prison, where students talk with inmates serving a life sentence who share their own stories, encouraging the students to make better decisions and lead positive, productive lives.  

Students learn meditation, mindfulness, growth mindset, and self-care. 

Each participating school is able to determine the days and times of the program to best serve their population.  

Availability

Each participating school is able to decide the days and times of the program to best serve their population.

Antwan Banks Williams

Antwan Banks Williams's life took a turn at the age of 18 when he was sentenced to 15 years in prison for armed robbery. The hardships, lessons, and resilience he encountered during his incarceration have since become the cornerstone of his transformative journey.

In a groundbreaking move, he co-founded the renowned podcast Ear Hustle. This award-winning podcast emerged as a platform for authentic storytelling, illuminating the untold narratives and challenges faced within the prison walls. Ear Hustle quickly gained global recognition for its unfiltered and compelling portrayal of life behind bars, shedding light on the humanity and complexities of individuals often overlooked by society.

Upon his release, Antwan harnessed his lived experiences to effect change. Beyond the success of Ear Hustle, Antwan's commitment to social reform led him to pivot toward education and advocacy. Embracing his role as an independent contractor, he collaborates with various schools throughout the Bay Area. He dismantles the school-to-prison pipeline by sharing his journey and insights with students, educators, and stakeholders. Through workshops, talks, and interactive sessions, he provides valuable perspectives, guidance, and strategies to prevent young individuals from entering the criminal justice system. He aims to equip them with knowledge and alternatives that divert them from the paths that once led him into incarceration.

Antwan Banks Williams is a testament to the power of personal growth, resilience, and the capability to transform adversity into a catalyst for societal change. His commitment to reshaping the incarceration narrative and advocating for reform not only in prisons but also within educational systems exemplifies his dedication to creating a more empathetic and understanding society. His journey from incarceration to an influential advocate serves as an inspiration, challenging perceptions and offering hope for a more compassionate and equitable future.

Jim Shirk

Jim Shirk, an Ohio native, brings 36 years of distinguished law enforcement experience to his roles. His journey began with six years of service in the US Army Military Police, followed by an extensive 30-year tenure with the Central Marin Police Authority. For the past seven years, he has been a dedicated consultant for the North Bay Security Group, offering invaluable expertise and guidance to the NUSD (Novato Unified School District).

A graduate of Columbia Southern University, Jim holds an Associate of Science degree in Criminal Justice Administration, reflecting his commitment to academic excellence in his field. 

Jim has fortified his professional repertoire with certifications from esteemed institutions. He completed the Sherman Block Leadership Institute, emphasizing his strong leadership abilities in law enforcement. His dedication to enhancing public organizations led him to the University of California Berkeley's Goldman School of Public Policy, where he mastered the intricacies of Strategic Management of Public Organizations. Additionally, he acquired specialized skills in Contemporary Management for Police Administration from San Jose State University.

Jim's background in law enforcement and his passion for empowering youth led him to partner with Early Vibes, Inc. as a facilitator in The Turn program for the past six years. His commitment extends beyond law enforcement, as he actively engages with students. Jim leverages his expertise to equip young men with essential skills for restoring relationships and adopting healthy coping mechanisms. Through mentorship and guidance, he supports these individuals in navigating challenges and making informed decisions, emphasizing the significance of responsible choices.

His ability to connect with young people is a testament to his versatility and empathy, enabling him to communicate and engage with the youth effectively. Jim's contributions to Early Vibes highlight his commitment to nurturing a generation of individuals capable of positively contributing to their communities.

Philippe “Kels” Kelly

Philippe “Kels” Kelly’s life took a fateful turn at the age of 15 when he found himself sentenced to 40 years to life for a gang-related homicide. However, after two decades of incarceration, a significant chapter in his story unfolded when Governor Jerry Brown commuted his sentence, reducing it to 20 years to life. Kels emerged from prison in February of 2023, having served 23 years.

Growing up essentially behind prison bars, Kels embarked on a profound journey of self-discovery and redemption. The catalyst for this transformation occurred during a victim awareness class in 2014. This class became the crucible of reflection for Kels, exposing him to the devastating consequences of his actions not only on the victim but also on the countless lives shattered by the trauma he inflicted. It was a pivotal moment that sparked a deep desire for inner transformation, challenging Kels to confront the roots of his willingness to participate in an act that took another person’s life.

Despite initially believing he would spend the rest of his life behind bars, Kels committed himself to a path of mindfulness and self-reflection. This commitment led him to engage in a series of transformative courses focused on gangs, drugs, violence, and self-awareness. Through this process, he gained a profound understanding of his trauma and reframed his lens around violence. Kels solemnly pledged never to harm anyone to that magnitude ever again.

Since his release, Kels has directed his efforts toward preventing young individuals from making the same mistakes he did. As a facilitator, he draws from his lived experiences to connect with youth, offering a raw and authentic perspective that resonates with them. His mission is to inspire them to choose a more positive and constructive path, steering clear of the pitfalls that once defined his journey.

Kels’s commitment to mentorship and guiding youth reflects a powerful narrative of redemption and the transformative potential within even the most challenging circumstances.