“I conclude you have completed the CARE plan and have officially graduated from the program,” said Honorable Jennifer K. Rockwell, the Collaborative Courts Supervising Judge.
An eruption of applause could be heard from the Sacramento Superior Courtroom on Tuesday morning as more than a dozen people gathered to celebrate the first Sacramento County CARE Court graduation.
Lorenzo Leon, joined by his mother and care team, marked a major milestone after a year-long journey through the program, becoming the County’s first CARE Court graduate.
CARE Court, short for Community Assistance, Recovery and Empowerment, is a civil court process designed to connect individuals living with untreated schizophrenia and other severe mental illnesses, such as bipolar I disorder, to community-based treatment, services and housing support. Through a court-ordered care plan, the program helps ensure participants receive the services they need while creating a pathway toward long-term stability.
For Lorenzo, that pathway led to housing, consistent treatment and a renewed sense of direction. Over the past year, he worked closely with County staff, service providers and his family to stay engaged in care and build a more stable future.
His care team, including County staff, community partners and loved ones, filled the room to recognize the work he put in to reach this moment. One by one, they took turns sharing how proud they are of his progress.
Judge Lawrence Brown, who presided over Lorenzo’s case, reflected on the journey and the family’s initial hesitation.
“I can recall that the mom in particular was a bit skeptical whether or not this was going to be able to make any real difference,” Brown said. “I remember the moment I saw her shift and begin to see the fruits of everyone’s efforts, and I couldn’t be more proud or honored to have witnessed your journey. While this may be the first graduation, Lorenzo is now setting the example for those who will follow. No pressure,” he added with a laugh.
Sacramento County Behavioral Health Director Ryan Quist encouraged Lorenzo to take in the moment and look around the room, reminding him that everyone there is part of his support system and a team he can continue to rely on moving forward.
For Lorenzo’s mother, the moment was not only a celebration, but a reflection of the persistence and care shown by the team around her son.
“May I take a moment to give a special shout out,” asked Lorenzo’s mom. “There was one County staff in particular who didn’t give up on him. Even when he would leave, she would go look for him and bring him back. I’m so thankful to the County staff and everyone who kept helping him and stayed on him, because it made all the difference.”
The celebration ended with cake, cards and yet more rounds of applause, marking not just the completion of the program, but the beginning of a new chapter.
To learn more about Lorenzo’s journey, check out this video and story. If you or a loved one would like to file a petition to start your own CARE Court journey, visit our website to learn more about eligibility and the process.