In 2015, Kathleen met Ernesto Rodriguez while preparing a client for a parole board hearing. At the time, a new law, SB 261, had passed, granting youth offenders like Ernesto the chance to appear before the parole board early. They began collaborating through a program called “Who Were You Born to Be?” where Kathleen quickly recognized Ernesto’s intelligence and potential for early release.

Ernesto dedicated himself to his education and participated in all available programs dedicating himself to personal transformation. Over the years, Ernesto kept Kathleen updated on his progress through letters, detailing his educational and recovery efforts.

After a year without communication, in October 2020, Kathleen reached out to Ernesto. He responded with a 10-page letter, sharing his experiences and developments since their last contact. By January 2021, Ernesto was developing a new program with his mentor, Doug Carnine, intended to foster a kinder culture within prisons. He asked Kathleen if she would lead this initiative, leveraging her nonprofit, California’s Parole Suitability Hearing Support—a venture she had started to assist individuals like Ernesto in preparing for parole.

Motivated by this opportunity to provide comprehensive programming on a larger scale, Kathleen moved from Arizona to California and established Kindful Restoration. As she navigated the complexities of setting up a nonprofit and developing new programs, Kathleen and Ernesto discovered their shared passion for service. Their professional collaboration blossomed into a personal relationship, and they married later that year.

Today, with Ernesto released after 24 years of incarceration, Kindful Restoration continues to thrive. It stands on a solid foundation built over the years, driven by their shared vision of service, commitment, and love for supporting disadvantaged populations. Together, they are dedicated to expanding their impact and continuing their mission.