Body of News Release
Marin County, CA – On stage at Marin Center’s 300-seat Showcase Theater in San Rafael were 24 probation clients who have successfully reentered society and demonstrated personal growth, accountability, and resilience. Nominated by their Deputy Probation Officers, they stepped into the spotlight April 15 and received warm applause from hundreds of onlookers during the Probation Department’s annual Wall of Change ceremony.
Over the past 15 years, the event has evolved into a full production and day of recognition. Recovery coach Alan Miller served as the master of ceremonies, and the keynote speaker was Elissa Lasserre, Executive Director of the New Beginnings Law Center. The program was led by Probation Director Terry Wright, who continuously thanked the dedicated staff who oversee the Wall of Change ceremony.
The event began with the premiere of the short documentary, Wall of Change: “Skin in the Game,” which highlights three of the honorees and their stories. It demonstrated the powerful, positive impact a Deputy Probation Officer can have on their clients. The film was directed by Vincent Cortez and Sofia L. Cortez.
The program featured two testimonies from honorees. For over 12 years, Mollie Banducci was in and out of the criminal justice system, caught in a lifestyle of drugs and crime. Throughout her journey, she had the support of family, friends, and the Probation Department, which provided her with resources to thrive. She delivered a powerful reflection on her life and the importance of self-reflection, accountability, and growth.
“Today is more than a ceremony for me. It’s a turning point,” she said. “It’s a line drawn between who I was and who I have fought to become. ... Today, I stand here clean. I stand here present. I stand here as a mother who is showing up, as a woman who is learning to love herself again, and as someone who finally understands her worth.”
Jon Haag followed with a testimony of redemption. He spent over 27 years working for the government and had opportunities to learn and travel the world as a professional.
“I got two DUIs within the course of four months,” he said. “I entered a program and spent seven months — three months in residential and four months in outpatient care. I realized how important community is.”
With the guidance of his Deputy Probation Officer, Haag began a 12-step program. Now sober, he has the opportunity to rebuild relationships with family and friends. He is present in his life and actively involved with the Sonoma County Fellowship AA community.
All of the honorees walked across the stage to receive their awards from Wright and the Honorable Judge Stephen P. Freccero of the Marin County Superior Court. The crowd, comprised of County of Marin leaders, community members, family, friends, Probation Department staff, previous Wall of Change honorees, and professionals, celebrated their journeys and continued to support them.
“The Wall of Change Ceremony is a powerful reminder that people are more than their past mistakes,” said Marlon Washington, Chief Probation Officer and Interim Assistant County Executive. “It represents the collective effort we make every day to collaborate with our partners and ensure our clients have the tools and opportunities to thrive. The clients honored have demonstrated consistency over the years, and their commitment is what makes this recognition so meaningful.”
The Probation Department remains committed to serving individuals with prior involvement in the criminal legal system by ensuring they receive the resources and support needed to reintegrate into the community successfully.
Learn more about Marin County Probation online.