As everyone is well aware, corrections staff are considered essential staff. They must be present at the facility to maintain the safety of not only the offender population, but also the public. Across the IDOC, staff have worked tirelessly to incorporate procedures to limit the spread of COVID-19, all while continuing to perform their regularly assigned duties. Their efforts, along with those of the offender population, are making a difference.
Individuals who hold essential jobs are not the only ones who are facing their fears though, their families are right there with them. When essential employees, like Wabash Valley Correctional Facility (WVCF) staff ,walk out of their homes to report to work, their family members know that they risk contracting COVID-19 at some point during their day. As such, the IDOC wanted to do Family Give-a-Ways to show they recognize this is a difficult time for both employees and their families.
Retention & Recruitment Coordinator David Wence presented the #InThisTogether Family Give-a-Ways to WVCF staff, stating, "I would like to thank all the WVCF staff for overcoming all the recent challenges they have had to face, and express my gratitude for their dedication to WVCF."
Officer River Smith received one of the baskets being given to custody. When asked about why he comes to work every day regardless of the risk to his own safety, he said, "We all started as friends and became a family."
The baskets that are being given away to custody staff are full of items that they can share with their families.
Caseworker Jerricha Meeks was one of the non-custody recipients of a State Park Pass. When she was asked about what the give-a-way meant to her she said, "It was a wonderful surprise to receive the state parks gift card. It's great to know that the Department sees and appreciates the work we are doing every day and we are not alone. This is something my family can enjoy with me and I'm grateful for that."
The State Park Entrance Permits that are being given away to non-custody staff are an excellent opportunity for them to get out and make memories with their family.
Looking for a new career? We are hiring now!
Call or email Recruitment and Retention Coordinator Carlos Williams during regular business hours at 765-524-7743 or CarlWilliams@idoc.in.gov.
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