Recently, Powder River Correctional Facility (PRCF) hosted a contact officer training event that welcomed guests from the Washington Department of Corrections. This two-day event featured a variety of discussions, including testimonies from the leadership team, executive management, contact officers, and adults in custody (AICs).
The leadership team provided an overview of the contact team’s significance and highlighted the key components of their success. They also emphasized how wellness is integrated into the environments of both staff and AICs, stressing the benefits of working and living in a safer setting. Additional topics covered included cultural change, colleague engagement, and the evolution of working conditions at PRCF. The event was filled with open discussions and explored ways to implement the contact program in other facilities.
The contact officer program began in 2018, when the Oregon Department of Corrections partnered with the Norwegian correctional system and AMEND to improve correctional culture. At PRCF, approximately 25 contact mentors work with adults in custody, meeting both formally and informally to encourage positive life changes and personal success.
These contact mentors provide guidance and support to AICs throughout their stay at PRCF. They focus on enhancing personal accountability, developing communication skills, and understanding the importance of setting and maintaining boundaries. By helping AICs overcome barriers to progress and achieve their goals, contact mentors play a vital role in assisting them in creating a viable plan for a better future.
Overall, the contact officer training was a great step in building support among participants. By exchanging insights and experiences, attendees acquired valuable knowledge, reflecting PRCF’s commitment to maintaining a safe and positive environment for both staff and adults in custody.
