instructors from stanford, ucberkelec went other schools volunteer their time. it's funded by private donations. word has spread among inmates and beyond these walls that this program can help lay the foundation to build a new beginning on the outside, a life that would include better job prospects, more life skills, and a renewed sense of home, confidence, and sense of worth. >> james houston is an example of the transformation. after serving 18 years for second-degree murder, houston is out of prison and he's giving back. houston is employed by richmond to help mentor and support young men in the community who are considered likely to become involved in gun violence. tell me how the prison life. >> i felt like with all the tools i gained going and seeing how important education was taking those life skills classes, becoming leadership in the groups there, i felt like i passion. >>reporter: the director of the project says in california, about 70% of released prisoners returned to prison within three years but she says the rate is 17% for those who were student