Visionary Leadership for Change
Meet Our Founder
Barbara Pollard, with over 30 years in corrections and parole services, founded Secret Place Adult Women Transitional Home to support and empower women reentering society. Learn about her vision and dedication to creating a future where every woman can thrive.
"A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Here at Secret Place, we walk alongside you every step of the way." – Barbara Pollard, Founder/CEO
Barbara Pollard is the visionary Founder and CEO of Secret Place Adult Women Transitional Home, Inc., a non-profit organization established under the laws of California. With a distinguished 33-year career at the California Department of Corrections, Barbara has extensive experience in inmate supervision, parole processes, and residential treatment facility management.
Her career began with rigorous training in inmate supervision, weapon handling, and tactical survival techniques, leading her to work within the prison system for two years before transitioning to the Parole Department. Here, Barbara’s responsibilities expanded to supervising parolees, particularly in regions like Compton, Huntington Park, San Fernando Valley, San Gabriel Valley, West Covina, and Pomona. She dedicated over five years to supervising sex offenders, gaining profound insights into the challenges faced by those transitioning back into society.
In 2015, Barbara's role further evolved as she took charge of over 13 residential and treatment facilities in the Parole Department's Housing/Residential Division. It was during this time that she developed a deep understanding of the personal struggles and traumas endured by formerly incarcerated individuals. This experience ignited her passion for aiding these individuals, culminating in the establishment of the Secret Place Adult Women Transitional Home.
The organization is committed to supporting women on parole in San Bernardino County and Los Angeles County, helping them reintegrate into the community. Under Barbara’s leadership, the home offers a comprehensive support system including case management, counseling, educational courses, and life skills training, all designed to foster self-sufficiency and personal growth among its residents.
Barbara’s leadership is driven by a belief in redemption and the transformative power of compassionate support. Her holistic approach ensures that each woman at Secret Place receives the personalized care needed to overcome challenges and achieve their goals, making a lasting impact on their lives and the community.