Empowering Veterans Behind Bars

A heartfelt thank you from the wife of an incarcerated military veteran at Oregon State Penitentiary (OSP) highlights the impact of veteran support programs. She expressed, “It helps me to be able to live on my own without depending on others.” This sentiment reflects the crucial role these programs play in supporting veterans and their families.

It’s not unusual to find veterans helping veterans behind bars. When veterans enter the Oregon prison system, the Oregon Department of Veterans Affairs (ODVA) steps in to verify their status, advocate for their benefits, and assist their families with VA benefits. However, the sheer number of veterans in the system presents a significant challenge in providing the extensive advocacy they require.

To address this challenge, ODVA proposed a pilot program in 2019 at OSP. This program allows adults in custody (AIC) to officially assist fellow veteran AICs with needs beyond the usual outreach efforts. This initiative has since become a cornerstone of veteran support within the prison, contributing to their success both during incarceration and upon reentry into society.

Dana S., the first and only AIC Veteran’s Benefits Specialist (VBS) in the state, plays a pivotal role in this program. Dana conducts thorough interviews with incarcerated veterans to understand their military service and determine the benefits they qualify for. He uses his expertise to navigate the complexities of VA benefits, ensuring veterans receive the support they deserve.

“Without this program, veterans likely will never realize the extent of the benefits available to them,” Dana states. He acknowledges that many veterans are unaware of their eligibility for certain VA benefits, and discovering this information can change their outlook on life.

Many veterans in prison come from homeless backgrounds. The Veterans Assistance Program (VAP) provides a wealth of resources, equipping veterans with the tools they need to succeed during their incarceration and after their release. Dana proudly states, “It’s likely that if you parole out of OSP, you won’t be homeless.”

Veterans who have benefited from OSP’s VAP consistently express gratitude for the support they’ve received. They highlight how the program has made their transition less stressful, and better prepared them for the future.

Dana’s mission is clear: “My job is to help make sure that my fellow veterans get every bit of help that they have earned as veterans. This way, maybe they get out of prison better off than when they came in, so that they never have to return.”

Story written by OSP’s PIO Media Team

Freedom on the Inside

Recently, the Freedom On The Inside recovery group visited the Oregon State Correctional Institution (OSCI) with their motorcycles, cars, and a powerful message of recovery, embodying the motto “WE DO RECOVER.” Comprised primarily of individuals who have overcome substance abuse and mental illness, the group aims to inspire and guide adults in custody (AICs) towards a clean and sober life.

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A Suprise Independence Day Celebration

For the second consecutive year, Powder River Correctional Facility (PRCF) organized a special outing for the adults in custody (AICs) to enjoy the local Fourth of July fireworks show. This event, coordinated by Officer Erickson and Lt. Brazofsky, ensured that AICs could view the fireworks in a safe and controlled environment.

The reactions from the AICs upon being notified was a mix of surprise, excitement, and a bit of confusion as they processed the opportunity. This year, six AICs were chosen to participate, accompanied by three Correctional Staff members: Lieutenant Brazofsky, Officer Lopez, and Officer Brinton.

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Two States, One Mission – Contact Team Training

Powder River Correctional Facility – Contact Team Training

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).

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Revolutionizing Corrections Through OSP’s Resource Team

Oregon State Penitentiary Learning Event

In a move to enhance correctional operations, the Oregon State Penitentiary (OSP) recently hosted a comprehensive Learning event focused on Dynamic Security practices. This event highlighted how these practices have been seamlessly integrated into operational tasks through the development of Resource Teams and the implementation of Contact Officer programs.

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The Steam Team

Rising Through Boiler Plant Apprenticeships at the Oregon State Penitentiary

We are thrilled to announce the launch of an innovative initiative within the Oregon State Penitentiary (OSP) that is not only revolutionizing opportunities for the adults in custody (AICs) but is also transforming lives beyond the prison walls. Introducing the Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) Boiler Operator Apprenticeship Program – a groundbreaking endeavor aimed at providing education, training, and sustainable job placement for individuals in our correctional facilities.

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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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Prison Perspective: U of O’s Inside-Out Program

University of Oregon’s Prison Education Program Members

With a class mantra like ‘Keep it Complicated,’ the students of the most recent University of Oregon (U of O) Prison Education Program (PEP) weren’t sure what to expect when they entered the classroom at the Oregon State Penitentiary (OSP) for the first time. During the first quarter of 2024, the subject was geography, specifically focusing on ‘Culture, Ethnicity, and Nationalism.’”

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