South Fork AICs Get to Attend Graduation Ceremony

South Fork JLAD AICs from Left to right Nicholas Schmit, Brent Morrow, Naythan Olney,
John Savelich, Chet Schisler, and Jonathan Cuha

Recently, South Fork Forest Camp (SFFC) had the privilege of taking six adults in custody (AICs) to the Joys of Living Assistance Dogs (JLAD) graduation in Keizer. The best part? The AICs had no idea that this field trip had been approved!

The AICs were warmly welcomed by the other guests, who expressed their appreciation for the hard work put into training the dogs. Originally, two AICs, Olney and Schisler, were scheduled to be guest speakers via video. However, they had the chance to address the audience in person, sharing their experiences and what JLAD has taught them about themselves. The recipients of the dogs trained at SFFC were able to personally thank the AICs, creating an emotional and memorable moment for everyone.

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An Unusual Field Trip

Walmart, Denny’s, and Back to EOCI

From left to right: Mike Markle, Seth Mulkey, Geoff Holden, and Sue Robson.

Mike Markle, Seth Mulkey, Geoff Holden, and Sue Robson ate breakfast at Denny’s in Hermiston, Oregon after visiting the local Walmart. What might seem l like a normal Friday to the unsuspecting eye, was a highly unusual, unprecedented event. What makes it such a rare occurrence? At the time, Mulkey was incarcerated at the Eastern Oregon Correctional Institution (EOCI).

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Unlocking Opportunities at Warner Creek

AIC Anthony Foster with Pacific Pine Supervisor Nick Strubel

The pilot Work Release Program at Warner Creek Correctional Facility, facilitated by Oregon Corrections Enterprises (OCE) and Pacific Pine Products, marks a significant opportunity for incarcerated adults. It’s the first of its kind in over 25 years and operates under the Prison Industries Enhancement Certification Program, offering woodworking, metal fabrication, sewing, and more. OCE, established in 1999 to engage adults in custody (AIC) in meaningful work, operates in nine Department of Correction’s (DOC) facilities, focusing on skills for workplace success and post-release employment.

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