Feds complete review of Illinois prisons

Positive reaction for Pontiac, Dwight and Sheridan Correctional Centers

Springfield - March 19, 2010 - The National Institute of Corrections (NIC) conducted an audit of security practices at Pontiac, Dwight and Sheridan Correctional Centers in Northern Illinois today.  This security audit determines the extent to which policy, procedure, standards and practices combine to provide a safe and secure institutional environment.

The function of this security audit is to determine the risk of a significant security problem in the event of injury, escape, disruption or destruction of property.  These assessments are the process of determining the risk remaining after all of the normal management safeguards have been applied.  Those safeguards include clarity of policy, procedure, training and daily supervisory activities.

According to NIC Specialist Rob Jeffreys, major aspects of an institution's security program are detailed in this evaluation.  NIC team members also said that they have found morale to be high and were impressed with the leadership at Pontiac, Dwight and Sheridan Correctional Centers.

Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) Director Michael P. Randle said, "We are pleased to have this opportunity to work with NIC on security practices at our prisons.  Gaining a fresh perspective on our security operations is an invaluable tool we can use to reassess our action plan and tweak the system.  Our goal is always the safety of the public, our staff and the inmates. This comprehensive security audit program is a major step in reducing the risks in prison operations."

IDOC operates 28 prisons throughout Illinois in addition to work camps, boot camps and adult transition centers.  The agency is committed to operating a safe and secure prison system as well as enhancing prison-based treatment, prevention programs and the successful reentry of inmates into society.

NIC is an agency within the U.S. Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Prisons.  NIC provides training, technical assistance, information services and policy and program development assistance to federal, state and local correctional agencies.

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	IDOC Director Michael P. Randle (left) is joined by numerous IDOC staff, including the wardens of Pinckneyville and Big Muddy River Correctional Centers and NIC representatives.

U.S. Department of Justice agency completes review of Illinois prisons

Pinckneyville and Big Muddy River prisons commended for staff professionalism, knowledge and dedication

SPRINGFIELD – March 11, 2010 - The National Institute of Corrections (NIC) conducted an evaluation and security review today of the critical incident management system at Big Muddy River and Pinckneyville Correctional Centers in southern Illinois. 

Critical incidents in the state's prison system can range from various crises including disturbances, escapes and natural disasters.  During such an incident, it is important to manage the outcome by following specific protocols designed to contain, secure and deal with the incident in the prison setting.

"We welcome and appreciate NIC assisting us with the review and evaluation of our critical incident management system," said Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) Director Michael P. Randle.  "Having another set of eyes is important to our operations in ensuring that IDOC’s protocols are followed and whether there is a need for modifications or additional training in our management of incidents."

NIC’s visit to the two southern Illinois prisons included reviewing current policies, procedures and emergency responses and sharing information and making recommendations.  According to NIC Specialist Rob Jeffreys, the recent visits have shown that IDOC operations meet some best practices and procedures.  Jeffreys noted that NIC will make a few recommendations to enhance operations.

“NIC has noted that our IDOC employees know what they are doing and are proud of a system that works,” said Randle.  “We look forward to NIC reviewing a number of our facilities up north as well.”   

NIC is also slated to evaluate several adult male and female prisons in northern Illinois to review similar security and operational functions.

IDOC operates 28 prisons throughout Illinois in addition to work camps, boot camps and adult transition centers.  The agency is committed to operating a safe and secure prison system as well as enhancing prison-based treatment, prevention programs and the successful reentry of inmates into society.

NIC is an agency within the U.S. Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Prisons.  NIC provides training, technical assistance, information services and policy and program development assistance to federal, state and local corrections agencies.

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	Featured from left are ACA Deputy Executive Director Jeffrey A. Washington, IDOC Director Michael P. Randle and ACA Executive Director James A. Gondles.

IDOC holds ACA orientation training

SPRINGFIELD – Feb. 22, 2010 - The Illinois Department of Corrections held an American Correctional Association orientation training session for the department’s executive and administrative staff and wardens at the agency’s General Headquarters in Springfield Feb. 22.  The training session was hosted by IDOC’s Office of Performance Based Standards.  ACA Executive Director James A. Gondles, ACA Deputy Executive Director Jeffrey A. Washington and IDOC Director Michael P. Randle addressed the audience.

The ACA, which was founded in 1870, currently represents more than 20,000 correctional practitioners in the U.S. and Canada.  The association conducts research and evaluation activities, provides training and technical assistance.  The Standards and Accreditation Department of ACA serves a dual mission of providing services for ACA and the Commission on Accreditation for Corrections.  These services include the development and promulgation of new standards, revision of existing standards, coordination of the accreditation process for all correctional components of the criminal justice system, semi-annual accreditation hearings, technical assistance to correctional agencies, and training for consultants who are involved in the accreditation process.

Topics covered during the orientation training session at IDOC included ACA and accreditation as well audit overview and preparation.

“ACA accreditation provides for an efficient performance management system to be in place,” said Director Michael P. Randle.  “The agency is currently looking at its central office in addition to identifying its first group of facilities to become ACA accredited within the next year.”
  
IDOC’s Office of Performance Based Standards analyzes compliance with existing laws, department rules, regulations, directives, standards, or policies; assesses efficiency and effectiveness in utilization of resources; determines whether desired results are being achieved; and provides consultation to encourage compliance and promote greater administrative, operational, and program efficiency and effectiveness. Assigned regional auditors serve as audit team leaders in the field as well as providing technical compliance support to assigned facilities and sites.  All correctional facilities and adult transition centers are audited by the Office of Performance Based Standards on an annual basis unless otherwise directed. All facilities and offices are required to conduct internal audits on a monthly basis according to their respective internal audit schedule. Fundamentally, the internal audit system at each facility and site is audited annually by the Office of Performance Based Standards to ensure compliance with requirements.

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121 cadets graduate from IDOC training academy

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois - February 11, 2010 - Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) Director Michael P. Randle today announced the graduation of 121 correctional officer cadets, who completed a six-week, paramilitary training course at the agency's training academy in Springfield.

"These new officers will make sure our prisons continue to be safe and secure," said Randle. "I congratulate these new officers and wish them luck as they begin their new careers at the Illinois Department of Corrections."

The additional correctional officers will help meet the operational needs of the agency. Since the beginning of fiscal year 2010, which began on July 1, 2009, nearly 500 cadets have graduated from IDOC's training academy.

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Governor Quinn and Senator Durbin

Joint Statement on COGFA Vote

CHICAGO - January 6, 2010 - Assistant Senate Majority Leader Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Illinois Governor Pat Quinn today commended the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability (COGFA) for their 7-4 decision in favor of the closure of the Thomson Correctional Center. Senator Durbin and Governor Quinn issued the following statement:

"We are pleased the bipartisan Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability has endorsed the sale of the Thomson Correctional Center to the federal government and rejected the partisan rhetoric.

Elected officials, community and business leaders and the residents of Northwest Illinois are wholeheartedly supporting this proposal because they understand that this is an opportunity to create up to 3,800 jobs and generate more than $1 billion in a region that desperately needs both.

Fully utilizing Thomson and upgrading this facility to make it the safest prison in the nation will not jeopardize the safety and security of our country or our state; we would never endorse a plan that would do so.

Despite the fear-mongering and nay-saying of a vocal few, we stand with state, county and local law enforcement officers and state's attorneys from across the area, and with our nation's military commanders, who know that this is about making our country safer by removing the deadly recruiting tool that Guantanamo has become.

This should not be a political or partisan issue. This is about doing what's right for our troops, for our national security and for the people of Illinois. We will continue doing everything we can to make this sale a reality and bring the jobs and other economic benefits to our state."

Please see attached list of support for the federal acquisition of Thomson Correctional Center. Thomson Support List

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Governor Quinn Names Chief Public Safety Officer For Illinois Department of Corrections

Law Enforcement Veteran Michael McCotter to Join State Agency

CHICAGO - January 6, 2010 - Governor Pat Quinn today announced that Michael J. McCotter, a 37-year law enforcement veteran, has been named to the recently announced position of Chief Public Safety Officer at the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC).

McCotter, whose experience includes a number of high-ranking positions in the Chicago Police Department, will evaluate and oversee implementation of IDOC's statutorily-sanctioned meritorious good time and electronic home-detention programs.

"Mike McCotter is an experienced law enforcement professional and public safety expert whose responsibilities will include reviewing and improving implementation of the meritorious credit and electronic home-detention programs. My mandate to the Illinois Department of Corrections is and always has been that the public's safety comes first and that's also Mike McCotter's top priority," said Governor Quinn.

In addition, Governor Quinn named Sean Vinck, Chief of Intergovernmental Affairs for the Office of the Governor of Illinois, as a special administrator for IDOC and named Mark S. Prosperi, a former Assistant United States Attorney, as Public Safety Liaison Officer for the Office of the Governor.

These appointments are part of Governor Quinn's plan to overhaul IDOC's meritorious credit program, which has been in existence since 1978, and is undergoing a comprehensive evaluation headed by criminal justice expert Judge David A. Erickson. A review of IDOC's electronic home-detention program is also underway.

A top-level executive with the Chicago Police Department, McCotter brings nearly four decades of experience to his new position. At the Chicago Police Department, McCotter served as a Chief of Patrol, Deputy Chief of Detectives, Commander of Special Events and as a District Commander. He has also participated in professional training sessions with the FBI, United States Secret Service, Homeland Security and other law enforcement agencies.

"I am happy to accept Governor Quinn's appointment and look forward to working at the Illinois Department of Corrections," said McCotter.

Governor Quinn has designated Sean Vinck to be a special administrator for IDOC, where his primary task will be to assist in the day-to-day management of the agency. He will report to Governor Quinn and Jerome Stermer, Chief of Staff to Governor Quinn. Vinck will retain his position as Chief of Intergovernmental Affairs for the Office of the Governor.

As Public Safety Liaison Officer for the Office of the Governor, Mark Prosperi will also assist in the oversight, coordination and implementation of the meritorious credit and electronic home-detention programs. In this recently announced position, Prosperi will work in the Office of Governor's General Counsel.

A former Assistant United States Attorney in Chicago from 1991 through 2007, Prosperi was also a member of the Chicago Strike Force for the United States Department of Justice. His former positions include: Chief of the Narcotics and Gangs Section; Deputy Chief of Special Prosecutions Section; Deputy Chief of the Organized Crime Section; and a U.S.A. coordinator for Great Lakes Region, Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force.

The Illinois Department of Corrections was established in 1970. When IDOC began, Illinois only operated seven adult facilities. Since that time, stricter laws have resulted in increased sentencing and longer terms. To address this steady increase in the inmate population, the agency today operates 28 adult correctional centers as well as various work camps, boot camps and eight adult transition centers. IDOC's recommended budget is $1.28 billion for Fiscal Year 2010. The agency employs approximately 11,000 employees and is responsible for the management of 45,000 adult inmates.

In Illinois the rate of recidivism, a tendency to relapse into criminal behavior, were 51.3 percent in fiscal year 2009 and 47 percent of DOC inmates serve six months or less.

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Statement from Illinois Department of Corrections Director Michael P. Randle

Overhaul of prison release program

CHICAGO – Dec. 30, 2009 - "The Illinois Department of Corrections recognizes the need to balance public safety, living within our means and rehabilitation. The fact that the department releases 28,000 offenders to communities across this state and admits another 28,000 into the prison system annually does require this agency to look for the most effective and efficient means to accomplish our mission.

The change to the MGT award process resulted in 1,718 offenders serving an average of 37 days less in state prison than they would have otherwise served under the previous process.

There were mistakes in judgment made during the planning, it was not implemented the way the Governor directed and I take responsibility for this.

While the statutes that govern MGT credit are specific on who cannot receive it, clearly there is a need to revisit and expand the statute based on the state’s current needs.  

• MGT/SMGT Impact List
• IDOC Good Conduct Highlights
• Governor Quinn Overhauls Prison Release Program
• Judge David A. Erickson
• Judge Gino DiVito
• National Study

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Illinois Department of Corrections moves forward in first half of Fiscal Year 2010 achieving significant change and accomplishments

New initiatives yield cost-savings, focus on reforms

SPRINGFIELD – Dec. 17, 2009 – With a new vision for the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC), Director Michael P. Randle is moving the agency forward with changes that have ranged from achieving millions of dollars in cost-saving measures to implementing significant changes in operations and prison reforms.  As director of one of the state’s largest agencies and a recommended budget of $1.28 billion, he leads a department of 11,000 employees and oversees the management of 45,000 inmates and the supervision of more than 33,000 parolees.

During the first half of Fiscal Year 2010, the agency implemented an Employee-Cost Savings Suggestion Program saving millions of dollars through reduced spending.  The program, which was implemented in July 2009, is featured on the IDOC website where employees are encouraged to identify opportunities to cut costs.  By October 2009, $2.5 million in cost-saving measures were implemented.  The measures included a reorganization of the agency that involved the elimination of executive staff positions, reduction in executive staff vehicles, changes in transferring inmates, and rescheduling of inmate work crews to allow staff to return to their facilities to address overtime.  As of to date, nearly 300 cost-savings suggestions have been received.

“Our goal is to stay on course by reviewing all operational aspects in finding ways to cut costs to help us meet our current budget deficit,” said Randle, who assumed his position as IDOC director in June 2009.  “With outstanding suggestions being routinely submitted, this program is setting a solid foundation for savings that continues to show promise.” 

In September, Randle announced his vision for IDOC and new prison reform initiatives at the John Howard Association Annual Meeting that included the agency’s approach to ensuring safety and reducing recidivism, its role in the Illinois Crime Reduction Act of 2009 and the Tamms Ten Point Plan.

“Ultimately this department will be and should be judged not only on our ability to ensure public safety, but on our ability to reduce recidivism as well,” Randle said.  “The recidivism rate in Illinois is 51.3 percent.  While the current rate is down from 54.4 percent in 2003, we must continue to reduce this number.” 

In order to achieve this goal, Randle stated that IDOC must take a three-prong approach that includes reducing the number of offenders coming into prison. 

“Statistics show that 47 percent of offenders who are released from IDOC have been in the agency’s custody for six month or less,” said Randle.  “It is the agency’s belief that these mostly, low-level non-violent offenders can be punished in less expensive community options.”  

For those offenders who do come to prison, Randle noted that the agency will need to expand and build on successful rehabilitative programs within the department, such as Operation Spotlight, Sheridan and Southwestern Illinois models, said Randle.  And, finally, IDOC must continue the work of its community-based partners and other reentry supports like its adult transitional centers and day reporting centers.

IDOC will also play a significant role in the Illinois Crime Reduction Act of 2009, in which Gov. Quinn recently signed into law.  The Act encourages the various components of the criminal justice system to take an integrated approach to crime risk and punishment.
 
“This comprehensive reform package will fundamentally reshape the criminal justice delivery system by using best practices that are based on a continuum of risks and needs assessment instruments,” said Randle.  “These instruments will be used at various levels in the criminal justice system to include pretrial, probation, prison and parole.”
  
Randle said that the purpose of the Act is to make better use of resources devoted to each of these functions and to provide a standardized set of validated risk and needs assessment instruments for use in the system.   The second part of the reform package focuses on reducing the number of offenders who are sent to IDOC.  Funds will be given to those counties who use community-based diversion programs to reduce the number of non-violent offenders, who would have received short prison sentences. 

Under the second aspect of this reform package, a mandatory supervised electronic detention recently has been implemented.  Approximately 1,000 low-level, non-violent offenders will be assigned a parole agent and required to adhere to strict guidelines for the remainder of their sentence.  The program is defined under current state statutes and is implemented with stricter eligibility requirements, including automatic prohibitions against sex offenders and violent offenders.  Since the program was implemented in early November, more than 100 inmates have been released to mandatory supervised electronic detention.  The program is expected to save the agency $5 million.  

Other prison reforms include the Tamms Ten-Point Plan, which Randle submitted to Gov. Quinn in September. 
   
“One of the first directives I received from Gov. Quinn was to review the conditions and management of Tamms Correctional Center.  Based on my review, there is and will continue to be a need for Tamms to be operated by IDOC,” said Randle, noting that evidence shows significant decreases in staff and inmate assaults and gang activity within the correctional system correlate with the opening and operation of Tamms.

While the need for such a facility exists, according to Randle, there are several operational reforms that will be implemented as outlined in the Tamms Ten-Point Plan.   The plan represents initial and immediate reform for Tamms, which include specific timelines to conduct transfers, the behavioral level system and GED testing.

“It is important to note that this is only one aspect of IDOC operations,” said Randle.  “The agency will move forward in taking a systemic approach of evaluating IDOC operations, program services and medical and mental health care delivery systems.”

In October, Randle also welcomed newly appointed members of the Adult Advisory Board, which advises IDOC concerning policy matters and programs for inmates and parolees.  

“The 13-member board will meet quarterly and help move IDOC forward as well as assist in   reforming the criminal justice system in Illinois,” Randle said.

Since Randle joined IDOC in June 2009, the department has hired four cadet classes to address overtime and the shortage of staff at certain facilities. The fourth cadet class begins Jan. 4, 2010.  
“These front-line positions will help address the overtime issue at numerous prisons, which has been costing the state millions of dollars in overtime,” Randle said.

Randle also has visited nearly every state prison, extensively reviewing operations and programs and speaking with staff.  He additionally has visited numerous adult transition centers, parole offices and Spotlight Centers, which provide counseling, programs and services to support the parolee's transition into society as well as community-based programs, such as the Women’s Treatment Center.

To continue his review of best practices, Randle has visited Department of Corrections in others states and met with prison officials. He recently visited the closed maximum-security facility at Indiana Department of Corrections. He routinely meets with directors from other state’s Department of Corrections to exchange lessons learned during these difficult economic times.

The issue of mental illness in prisons and jails is both complex and pervasive.  To address the issue, Randle provided testimony in Washington DC in September before the Senate Committee on the Judiciary, Subcommittee on Human Rights and the Law, on "Human Rights at Home: Mental Illness in U.S. Prisons and Jails."

“IDOC and the field of corrections are ever changing,” said Randle.  “In addition to our own prison operations, working with law enforcement, social service agencies and community-based organizations are all also important pieces to the puzzle.  Building on these partnerships is imperative in how we operate, evolve and move forward to meet the challenges of tomorrow.” 

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Pontiac Correctional Center implementing green practices

Prison participating in paper and plastic recycling

SPRINGFIELD – Dec. 8, 2009 – Pontiac Correctional Center recently implemented a recycling program when it teamed with a high school project through Pontiac Township High School.    

The prison’s recycling project will decrease paper and plastic waste being sent to the Livingston Landfill.   

“It’s important to continue to look at ways to reduce the environmental impact in our day-to-day operations,” said Director Michael P. Randle.  “We are pleased to participate in this program and will continue to look at expanding recycling opportunities throughout the department.”

“The employees at Pontiac Correctional Center were eager to join in the recycling effort,” said Warden Guy Pierce.   “The prison’s Green Government Committee met with the instructor and students of the high school’s ecology class, who later developed and presented their recycling plan for the facility.  It’s a positive program for the prison and makes a significant impact on the environment.  Some 14,000 plastic bottles are used here each month.” 

Pierce noted that the inmates were also on board from the beginning by saving enough bottles to fill an entire trash bin as soon as the program was implemented.  Drop boxes are placed throughout the facility for the paper and plastic.  The inmates later sort the items and the materials are transported to a recycling facility. 

According to Pierce, other prisons are looking at the program as well. 

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Governor Quinn signs legislation targeting illegal firearm possession by gang members

New law to honor slain Chicago police officer

CHICAGO - Dec. 3, 2009 - Governor Pat Quinn today signed a bill into law that will require prison time for street gang members convicted of possessing a loaded gun in a public area. This new law strengthens the current law which rules that gang members in possession of a loaded gun can be sentenced to probation.

"Public safety and crime prevention are of paramount importance to the law-abiding people of Illinois," said Governor Quinn. "This new law I'm signing puts gang members on notice: If they get caught carrying a loaded gun in public, they will go to prison."

The  law was drafted and introduced by Cook County State's Attorney Anita Alvarez and is named in honor of Chicago Police Officer Alejandro "Alex" Valadez, who was shot and killed on June 1, 2009 when he was responding to a call of shots fired in Chicago's Englewood community. Officer Valadez was struck down by shots fired from a passing vehicle occupied by three suspected gang members. One of the three men charged in his murder was on probation for aggravated unlawful use of a weapon at the time Officer Valadez was killed.

"This new law will be an extremely important tool for police and prosecutors in the battle against gang and gun violence in our communities," said State's Attorney Alvarez.  "It is our honor to name this bill in the memory of Officer Valadez, who made the ultimate sacrifice in his service to the citizens of Chicago."

House Bill 4124 amends the Criminal Code of 1961 and the Unified Code of Corrections to create the non-probationable, class two felony offense of "unlawful possession of a firearm by a street gang member." The offense occurs when street gang members unlawfully possess a firearm and ammunition in the areas where gang violence is most likely to occur - the streets, sidewalks and alleys of Illinois' urban areas. Conviction under the new law requires a prison sentence of three to ten years.

"This legislation is grounded in common sense and helps us take a significant step forward in the fight against gangs, guns and drugs. It sends a message to gang bangers that the people of Illinois are committed to stand up to their violent ways," said Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley.

The bill was sponsored by Rep. Edward Acevedo (D-Chicago) and Sen. Antonio Munoz (D-Chicago) and is effective immediately.

The bill signing took place at the Chicago Police Department's Seventh District Headquarters where Officer Valadez was based.

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	IDOC Director Michael P. Randle and staff discuss the management and recent reform initiatives at Tamms Correctional Center at IDOC’s Media Day at Tamms Nov. 19. Featured from left are Tamms Warden Yolande Johnson, Director Randle, Chief of Operations Rick Bard and Director of Mental Health Services Wendy Blank.

Tour conducted along with staff and inmate interviews

SPRINGFIELD - Nov. 19, 2009 - The Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) hosted a Media Day at Tamms Correctional Center Nov. 19.  The event, which was the second media day hosted there since the center opened in 1998, was part of the agency’s Tamms Closed-Maximum Security Unit (C-Max) Ten-Point Plan to give media the opportunity to tour the facility and interview staff and inmates.

Tamms C-Max, which was built to hold 500 inmates, currently houses nearly 250.  The mission of Tamms C-Max is to improve the quality of life, safety and day-to-day operations of other IDOC facilities and to enhance the safety of staff, offenders and the public. Tamms C-Max is designated and designed to house the department’s most disruptive, violent and problematic offenders. Offenders approved for placement at Tamms C-Max have demonstrated an inability or unwillingness to conform to the requirements of a general population facility.

“One of the first directives I received from Governor Quinn in June of this year was to review the conditions and management of Tamms Correctional Center,” IDOC Director Michael P. Randle told reporters.  “My second day on the job was spent at Tamms walking every cellblock and housing unit and talking to staff and inmates.  I spent 10 hours that day, which was the beginning of a thorough review of the facility programs, operations, inmate health and other issues.”

Randle noted that following his review of the facility, he later had the opportunity to present the Tamms C-Max Ten-Point Plan outlining reforms to the governor.  The plan was approved and the agency has moved forward with its implementation.

“There is and will continue to be a need for Tamms to be operated by IDOC.  Significant decreases in staff and inmate assaults within the correctional system correlate with the opening and operation of Tamms,” Randle said.

In addition to conducting the tour and fielding questions, Tamms Warden Yolande Johnson apprised the media of progress regarding the Ten-Point Plan, which involves implementation of increased telephone privileges for inmates, recruiting religious volunteers for congregate inmate activities, offering GED examinations for inmates as well as 10 inmates stepping out of Tamms C-Max to other state prisons.

“We are moving ahead,” said Johnson.  “The employees here at Tamms are excellent and have been on board since the beginning with the new reforms here at Tamms.”
 
“Tamms is evolving,” said Randle.  “IDOC continues to seek best practices throughout the nation in an effort to enhance our management of this population.  We have spent a great deal of time researching reform initiatives, including visiting nearby states that manage supermax facilities.”     

On behalf of an invitation from Illinois U.S. Senator Richard Durbin in September, Randle addressed the U.S. Senate Committee on the Judiciary Subcommittee on Human Rights and the Law in Washington, D.C., regarding the important issues surrounding offenders with diagnosed mental illnesses.  In November, Durbin toured Tamms with Randle and noted that he was impressed with the mental health services and programming provided to the offenders.
 
“I will continue to tap into the expertise of the agency’s mental health staff, to work with other agencies to provide seamless treatment for offenders and to provide linkage with community providers,” Randle said.  “Using the resources that are at our disposal, the agency will continue to provide the best care for these offenders that it possibly can provide.”

Editor’s note:  Tamms Ten Point Plan is featured on the IDOC website at www.idoc.state.il.us under the Tamms Overview and Ten Point Plan link.

 
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Chinese delegation meets with IDOC officials at General Headquarters as part of University of Illinois Chinese Executive Leadership Program

	Deputy Warden Qiao Honghui of Yancheng Prison, Minister of Justice (left), presents IDOC with Tibetan ceremonial masks to Manager of Staff Development and Training Brian Adams.

SPRINGFIELD - Nov. 18, 2009 - The China Ministry of Justice, hosted by the University of Illinois China Executive Leadership Program, recently met with Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) officials at the agency's General Headquarters in Springfield on Nov. 13. Manager of Staff Development and Training Brian Adams coordinated the meeting. The 21 delegates who visited the agency were comprised of wardens, deputy directors and other administrators from regions and provinces across China.

During the meeting, IDOC officials and the Chinese delegates discussed a variety of topics, such as budget, training of employees, employee incentives, good time and early release, electronic monitoring, security level designations, classification of inmates, programming and size of prisons.

In China, there is a total of about 1.5 million inmates. China has three prison system levels: central (federal), province (which 90 percent of the prisons exist) and local. Larger-sized prisons hold about 3,000 inmates, medium-sized prisons hold 2,000 inmates and smaller-sized prisons hold 1,000 inmates. Police officers are required by law to work in the Chinese prisons. Inmates there are mandated to participate in programming while serving their sentence. Budget issues are some of the obstacles China faces in its prison operations. Recently, China has been reforming its prison system. Previously, the prison system was supported by businesses, now the prison system is a separate entity.

In addition to meeting with IDOC employees at general headquarters, the Chinese delegation also toured the agency's historical museum and a number of IDOC prisons.

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Governor Quinn announces Obama Administration exploring use of Thomson Correctional Center

Federal Bureau of Prisons to evaluate options for near-vacant facility

MOLINE - Nov. 15, 2009 - Governor Pat Quinn today joined U.S. Senator Richard Durbin to announce that senior Obama Administration officials will consider plans to use the Thomson Correctional Center. Those plans could include a purchase of the facility by the Federal government.

Thomson, a virtually vacant, state-of-the-art prison, will be evaluated by representatives of the Federal Bureau of Prisons, who are expected to visit the facility this week.

“We will work with the Obama Administration to determine ways the Thomson facility can be fully-used to best serve the public. Any future decisions regarding Thomson will first and foremost focus on ensuring public safety, while also bringing thousands of new jobs and a major investment to our state,” said Governor Quinn.

Located in Carroll County, Thomson Correctional Center was constructed eight years ago but has remained virtually vacant due to lack of funding. As a result, the Village of Thomson continues to experience tough economic conditions and a high unemployment rate.

“Today’s announcement comes at a time when unemployment in Carroll County and the surrounding area remains high and the state-of-the-art correctional center continues to sit vastly underutilized,” Senator Durbin said. “A decision by the White House to choose Thomson would result in nothing short of a major economic impact on the region. With up to 3,000 jobs on the line, this could be the biggest jobs creator in northwest Illinois since I’ve held elected office.”

Recently, Thomson Village President Jerry Hebeler contacted Governor Quinn to express the village’s willingness to consider “any and all alternatives” to open the prison and bring economic vitality back to the region. In his letter, he suggested asking if the federal government would be interested in using the facility.

Governor Quinn discussed the possibility with President Obama briefly during a recent trip to Washington, D.C.

Afterward, Governor Quinn sent a November 12 letter to Robert Gates, Secretary of Defense, and Eric Holder, U.S. Attorney General, highlighting Thomson’s modern safety features and stating the prison could be of assistance to plans being formulated by the U.S. government “to move federal prisoners and to locate a limited number of detainees in the United States.”

Built on 146 acres, Thomson is a Level 1, adult male, maximum-security prison with 1,600 cells and eight housing units. The facility is enclosed by a 12-foot exterior fence and 15-foot interior fence, which includes a dual sided electric stun fence. Currently, the Illinois Department of Corrections is only using a very small portion of the facility, and there is no opening date in the foreseeable future for the main complex.

Governor Quinn and Senator Durbin requested the Administration do a preliminary economic impact analysis regarding the Federal Government’s potential acquisition and activation of the State correctional facility in Thomson.

Among the preliminary report’s findings:

Thousands of New Jobs: The analysis estimates that Federal operation of the facility would generate between 2,340 and 3,250 ongoing jobs. These would include both direct, well-paying Federal jobs at the facility, as well as indirect jobs in the surrounding region. These indirect jobs would result from the support services needed to operate the facility, as well as the increase in earnings for the local population. The analysis estimates that approximately half of these jobs would be hired locally, while the other half would go to personnel moving into the area.

Significant Reduction in Unemployment: The analysis predicts that unemployment would drop significantly. For example, the unemployment rate in Carroll County, where the facility is located, could be cut in half from its September 2009 level of 10.5%. Unemployment also would decline in surrounding counties, including Whiteside, Jo Daviess, Lee, and Rock Island Counties in Illinois, as well as Clinton and Jackson Counties in Iowa. Overall, the earnings of area residents could increase by as much as $223 million annually on an ongoing basis.

Direct and Indirect Economic Boost: The analysis predicts a large and immediate impact on the local economies surrounding the facility. For example, the operation of the facility would rely on local utilities, transportation and food services. A large share of the salaries from new employees would go toward the purchase of locally-provided goods and services, such as housing, retail goods, and health care. These indirect waves of economic activity would amplify the direct impacts of the facility.

Regional Economic Stimulus: The analysis estimates that the overall injection of funds into the local economy would be between $790 million and $1.09 billion over the first four years. This would result from the operation of the facility, construction expenditures, salaries, and visitors to the area. The economic impact is expected to be divided generally as follows:

Carroll County, Illinois
40%
Other Illinois Counties
(Whiteside, Jo Daviess, Lee, and Rock Island Counties)
40%
Iowa Counties
(Clinton and Jackson Counties)
20%

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 IDOC Director Randle announces $2.5 million in cost-saving measures for Fiscal Year 2010

SPRINGFIELD – Oct. 20, 2009 – Illinois Department of Corrections Director Michael P. Randle announced today the agency will save $2.5 million through reduced spending in Fiscal Year 2010.  The savings will help the agency as it attempts to meet its current budget deficit.

“During this economic climate, every cost-saving measure, irrespective of how miniscule, is significant if it results in an actual cost saving,” Randle said.  “We must be fiscally responsible and share in the sacrifice by looking at all aspects of our agency and identifying opportunities to cut costs.”

Randle highlighted 10 cost-cutting measures, which included a reorganization of the agency that involved the elimination of executive staff positions; rescheduling of inmate work crews to allow staff to return to their facilities to address overtime; reduction in executive staff vehicles; and changes in the transferring of inmates.

Randle also ensured that more cost-saving measures at IDOC will continue to follow.  

“The agency recently implemented an Employee Cost-Savings Suggestion Program in which employees are encouraged to identify opportunities to cut costs as well as suggest lower cost alternatives needed to benefit IDOC operations,” said Randle.  “Since the program’s implementation in late July, we have received more than 200 suggestions.   With outstanding suggestions being submitted routinely, this program shows significant promise in our goal to reduce spending.”

Employees can submit suggestions through the Employee Cost-Savings Suggestion Program web page.

Randle said the suggestions being submitted typically include areas concerning staffing, operations, parole, administrative management and technology.

More information regarding the most recently announced cost-savings measures is available on the IDOC Cost-Saving Measures web page.

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IDOC Director Randle welcomes members of the Adult Advisory Board

Board will assist IDOC in reforming state’s criminal justice system

SPRINGFIELD – October 1, 2009 – Illinois Department of Corrections Director (IDOC) Michael P. Randle welcomes the newly appointed members of the Adult Advisory Board.  The board advises IDOC concerning policy matters and programs for incarcerated persons and those on parole.

“I look forward to working with the members of the board to help move the department forward and reform the criminal justice system in the state of Illinois,” Director Randle said.

The Adult Advisory Board meets quarterly and consists of 13 members, including Director Randle and IDOC Assistant Director Deanne Benos.  Governor Pat Quinn appointed the following members to the Adult Advisory Board on Tuesday:

• Wilder “Kendric” Berry (Chicago) – a wrongfully convicted man who spent more than eight years at IDOC; senior paralegal at Winston Strawn LLP;  affiliated with the John Howard Association of Illinois and the Positive Anti-Crime Thrust. 
• Shaena Fazal (Chicago) – director of the Long-Term Prisoner Policy Project for the John Howard Association of Illinois; former chair of the Illinois State Bar Association’s Committee on Corrections and Sentencing.
• James Gannon (Homewood) – current chairman of the Adult Advisory Board; deputy chief of police in the village of Homewood.
• William “Patrick” Hartshorn (Danville) – member of the Adult Advisory Board since 2002; sheriff of Vermillion County. 
• Keith Lape (Jacksonville) – retired vice president of MacMurray College.
• Vernon Mercier (Decatur) – banking and trust industry professional.
• David Olson (Arlington Heights) – professor and chair of the Criminal Justice Department at Loyola University; former senior research scientist for the Illinois Criminal Justice Authority. 
• Jesus Reyes (Lansing) – acting chief probation officer for the Circuit Court of Cook County. 
• Angela Rudolph (Chicago) –  program education officer for the Joyce Foundation; former special assistant to Mayor Richard M. Daley on Ex-Offender Reentry; former program director for the Juvenile Violence Initiative of Chicago Metropolis 2020. 
• Donald Young (Ava) – 25 year veteran of IDOC; retired warden of Shawnee Correctional Center.
• Malcolm Young (Free Union, VA) – retired executive director of the John Howard Association of Illinois.  

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State provides funding to the Illinois Department of Corrections for smarter prevention, tougher enforcement

CHICAGO – September 18, 2009 – Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) Director Michael P. Randle today announced a comprehensive crime reduction package that will continue Governor Pat Quinn’s prison reform efforts.  The Governor is providing an additional $4 million to IDOC, which will oversee the implementation of these smarter, tougher prevention and enforcement measures.

“The Governor’s support has provided the state with the tools it needs to embark on these far reaching criminal justice reform initiatives,” Director Randle said.  “This will lead to the development of new tools throughout the state’s entire justice system that will ensure all law enforcement can better target resources, more effectively reduce crime and strengthen communities. At the same time, it will help us to manage safer, more efficient prisons.”

“Director Randle’s primary focus is protecting the public while also modernizing and improving the state’s correctional system,” Governor Quinn said.  “These new approaches will help accomplish that important goal.”

The focus on reform is the result of the state’s rising prison population and its drain on limited resources.  IDOC attributes the increase, from 18,000 in fiscal year 1986 to nearly 46,000 in fiscal year 2009, to higher incarceration rates of low-level, non-violent drug offenders.  Experts question whether the state’s investment of $3 billion in taxpayer dollars to build, operate and maintain new prison space was effective in reducing crime and cite research studies that indicate those dollars may have been more successfully invested in drug treatment and other community-based alternatives.

One aspect of the reform package, the Illinois Crime Reduction Act of 2009, will reduce the number of offenders sent to IDOC by creating a new program to help divert adults from the state prison system and focus on more effective crime reduction methods.  Two million dollars will be used to encourage counties to use community-based programs for those non-violent offenders who would have otherwise received a short-term prison sentence. 

The Act also calls for the implementation of an automated integrated system to link courts, probation, prison and parole.  Such a link will help formulate an offender’s reentry plan and reduce recidivism.  It will identify resources and services needed, such as substance abuse programming and job placement, as well as other factors, including education level, skills, attitude and relationships that can affect the outcomes related to the reentry process.

Under the second aspect of the reform package, $2 million will be designated for the implementation of mandatory supervised electronic detention.  Approximately 1,000 low-level, non-violent offenders will be assigned a parole agent and will be required to adhere to strict guidelines for the remainder of their sentence.  Though this program is defined under current state statute, it will be implemented with stricter eligibility requirements, including automatic prohibitions against sex offenders and violent offenders. 

On average, 47 percent of offenders released from custody each year serve six month or less in the state prison system and 69 percent of all inmates are in prison for non-violent crimes. Mandatory supervised electronic detention is designed to reduce the strain this population imposes on the prison system and allow resources to be better targeted toward higher risk offenders within IDOC. 

“In our extensive history working with the justice system, we have found that alternatives to incarceration are far more effective ways to reduce crime for the vast majority of non-violent, short-term drug-involved offenders,” explained Pamela F. Rodriguez, President, Treatment Alternatives for Safe Communities (TASC).

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Completes Tamms prison review, announces reforms

CHICAGO - September 17, 2009 - Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) Director Michael P. Randle today outlined his plan for reforming the state’s prison system.  Randle’s vision to move the department forward includes implementing the Illinois Crime Reduction Act of 2009 and a 10-Point Plan for the supermax prison in Southern Illinois.

“There are a number of criminal justice reforms on the horizon in which IDOC will play a significant role.  One in particular is the implementation of the Illinois Crime Reduction Act of 2009, which will fundamentally reshape the criminal justice system in this state,” Director Randle said.  “I applaud Governor Pat Quinn for signing this into law and Senator Kwame Raoul and Representative William Burns for their hard work in getting this legislation passed.  I will use this new law as a blueprint to move the department forward.”

The Illinois Crime Reduction Act of 2009 will reduce the number of commitments to IDOC in part by creating a new program to help divert adults from prison.  Funding for the Adult Redeploy program will be given to those counties who use community-based diversion programs to help those who would have otherwise received a short-term prison sentence.  Reducing the prison population will save the department money, stimulate the economy and help reduce recidivism.

The Act also calls for the implementation of an automated integrated system to link courts, probation, prison and parole.  Such a link will help formulate an offender’s reentry plan and reduce recidivism.  It will identify resources and services needed, such as substance abuse programming and job placement, as well as other factors, including education level, skills, attitude and relationships that can affect the outcomes related to the reentry process.

In addition to the Illinois Crime Reduction Act of 2009, IDOC will implement reforms at the Tamms Closed Maximum Security Unit (CMAX).  After appointing Randle as IDOC director in May, Governor Quinn requested that Randle thoroughly review the operations at the Tamms facility.

“There is ample evidence that shows significant decreases in staff and inmate assaults and gang activity since the opening and operation of Tamms.  While the need for such a facility exists, there are several operational reforms that are being recommended,” Director Randle explained.

Tamms CMAX, which opened in March 1998, is designated to house IDOC’s most disruptive, violent and problematic inmates.  Inmates approved for placement at Tamms CMAX have demonstrated an inability or unwillingness to conform to the requirements of a general population prison.  

After conducting a thorough review of the operations at Tamms CMAX, Director Randle made the following recommendations in his Tamms 10-Point Plan:

• Point 1:  Allow each inmate placed at Tamms CMAX to have a Transfer Review Hearing.
• Specific timelines to conduct Transfer Review Hearings are being designated.
• Inmates will be given an opportunity to refute and offer information that may impact their transfer to Tamms CMAX.  Inmates will also be given an opportunity to appeal their placement at Tamms CMAX.
• An audio recording of all Tamms CMAX placement hearings will be maintained.

• Point 2:  Inform each inmate of an estimated length of stay and how privileges can be earned to provide for eventual transfer from Tamms CMAX.
• Based on the offense the inmate committed, staff will use professional correctional judgment to inform the inmate of a range of time he should expect to serve at Tamms CMAX.

• Point 3:  Promote the medical and mental health evaluation process conducted prior to and after placement for each inmate sent to Tamms CMAX.
• Each inmate placed at Tamms CMAX will receive a full mental health evaluation within 30 days of placement.
• Mental health staff will make weekly rounds in all housing units to identify any inmate who is decompensating as a result of transfer to the facility. 

• Point 4:  Increase inmate privileges throughout the Behavioral Level System to incentivize positive behavior at Tamms CMAX.
• Dependent on behavioral adjustment, the amount of out-of-cell recreation time and commissary will be increased.
• Telephone privileges will be added to the Behavioral Level System at the facility. 

• Point 5:  Begin offering General Educational Development (GED) testing at Tamms CMAX.

• Point 6:  Implement congregate religious services for inmates at Tamms CMAX.

• Point 7:  Rescind some of the printed materials restrictions for inmates at Tamms CMAX.

• Point 8:  Develop a plan for a Reassignment Unit at Tamms CMAX similar to those operated at other step-down units.
• The Reassignment Unit will be an intermediate step for inmates who present the most risk if transferred from Tamms CMAX, but have demonstrated appropriate adjustment behavior.

• Point 9:  Plan a media, legislative and public outreach strategy that includes a visit to Tamms Correctional Center.

• Point 10:  Reexamine the population of inmates having served extensive time at Tamms CMAX for transfer eligibility.
• A review of the inmates held at Tamms CMAX from 1998 through 2004 was conducted to determine which inmates were appropriate for eventual transfer out of the facility.  Of the cases reviewed, 45 were deemed eligible for transfer.  

"The John Howard Association of Illinois has championed many of these reforms since Tamms opened in 1998.  We are deeply grateful that Director Randle has made so much progress in such a short time, and we enthusiastically endorse his Ten-Point Plan.  These reforms will improve the conditions of confinement, better address mental health needs, afford inmates greater access to fair and humane treatment and offer them the promise of education and other programming. Inmates who have demonstrated years of good behavior also now have a chance to earn their way out of Tamms and back into prisons with less harsh conditions.  As advocates, we know that reform is a process, and we will keep a close eye on monitoring the implementation of these welcomed reforms," said Hanke Gratteau, executive director, John Howard Association of Illinois.

Director Randle is looking forward to implementing the Tamms 10-Point Plan and will continue to monitor and evaluate the reforms to ensure their effectiveness.

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Coordinator of Addiction Recovery Management Services Dona Howell received the Distinguished Woman in Corrections Award for her commitment to excellence on the job. Correctional Officer Tiffanie Clark at Illinois River Correctional Center was presented the Humanitarian Award for her service and dedication to humanity and contributions to society.  From left are Assistant Warden of Programs Marcus Hardy at Pontiac Correctional Center, who served as WIC awards committee chairman; Tiffanie Clark, Dona Howell, and Warden Yolande Johnson at Tamms Correctional Center, who served as co-chairwoman of the WIC Hospitality Committee.

Women in Corrections-Illinois holds 3rd annual conference in Effingham

Change Your State Of Mind In 2009: “Here’s To A Better You” attracts nearly 500 attendees

SPRINGFIELD - Sept. 16, 2009 - The Women in Corrections-Illinois 3rd Annual Conference recently was held Sept. 1-3 at the Thelma Keller Convention Center in Effingham.  The conference attracted nearly 500 attendees throughout the state, who included participants, presenters, sponsors and vendors. This year's theme, Change Your State Of Mind In 2009: “Here’s To A Better You,” focused on the diversity of women in corrections, the vital role they play as proven leaders, the challenges they face and the importance of personal and professional development. Conference topics included Living a Health Life; The Doctors; Women Entrepreneurs; When Women Hold the Keys; and The Savvy Financial Women.

Motivational speaker Deb DiSandro served as keynote speaker.  DiSandro provided an entertaining presentation on “Let’s Kick Some Buts.” DiSandro demonstrated how the word “but” can hurt people both mentally and physically and keep them from finding the health, wealth and happiness they deserve.

Illinois Department of Corrections Director Michael P. Randle and Assistant Director Deanne Benos were among many who welcomed attendees.   
Randle, who has nearly 20 years of service in correctional management commended women who work in the correctional field.

“The skills, professionalism and dedication of women in corrections have indeed contributed significantly to the correctional industry,” said Randle.  “A diverse workforce in corrections is valuable in meeting the goals of providing effective operations, programs and services.”

Benos pointed out the successes of women in the U.S. as well those working at IDOC.

“The State of Illinois continues to lead the nation in its efforts to reduce crime and recidivism as a result of successful reentry efforts,” said Benos.  “Women who work at the Illinois Department of Corrections play an important role in those initiatives that include Operation Spotlight Parole Reform Program; Sherdian National Model Drug Prison and Reentry Program; and the National Model Meth Prison Program.”

Chief of Programs and Support Services Roberta Fews, who serves as executive chair for WIC-Illinois, pointed out that WIC-Illinois has become a significant organization and is dedicated to sharing a commitment to excellence on the job.

“I have great pride in the mission of WIC-Illinois,” said Fews, a veteran employee of IDOC.  “Over the years, I have had the opportunity to work with exemplary women, who come from all backgrounds and work in all areas of corrections.  Each one has played a significant role in building and shaping the future of corrections.  Our strategies may differ, but our goal remains the same.  By expanding our opportunities and by being responsible leaders and mentors, we will work toward being the best that we can be.”

Fews also pointed out that the success of the past two conferences demonstrates that “WIC-Illinois is moving forward to becoming a truly significant organization dedicated to sharing a commitment to excellence on the job.”

Other highlights of the event included the Mayor of Effingham John J. Lange welcoming the director and the conference participants to the City of Effingham.

Two awards were also presented to honor women in the work place and community.  Coordinator of Addiction Recovery Management Services Dona Howell received the Distinguished Woman in Corrections Award for her commitment to excellence on the job. Correctional Officer Tiffanie Clark at Illinois River Correctional Center in Canton was presented the Humanitarian Award for her service and dedication to humanity as well as her many contributions to society.

Dona Howell

Howell was recognized for her more than 23 years of dedicated service to IDOC. Over the years, she has played a major role in the agency’s substance abuse program. In addition to providing guidance to IDOC’s certified alcohol and drug counselors (CADC), she reviews and chooses training topics for the CADC training sessions and writes rules and guidelines for the substance abuse program.  Howell facilitates trainings for IDOC, statewide IAODAPCA substance abuse conferences, Alcoholics Anonymous conferences and seminars.  Howell also guest lectures at local upper-level educational institutions.  She serves on various substance abuse-related committees and is an active member of the DASA Women’s Criminal Justice Work Group, which assures women, who suffer from drug abuse and are served by the Illinois criminal justice system, receive comprehensive substance abuse treatment within correctional institutions and the community.  At the national level, she has participated on a substance abuse criminal justice-oriented committee based in Washington, D.C.  Howell additionally teaches a substance abuse class at Southern Illinois University and is near completion of her PhD.

Tiffanie Clark

Clark has been instrumental in organizing, inspiring and developing drives and donations for local communities in which she lives.  She has been a co-organizer in Keep our Kids Warm and Safe Program in the past several years.  She also served as a co-organizer for a School Supply Drive, in which 6,800 items were received, including box fans that were given to senior citizens at the YWCA.  Clark was instrumental in a recent community fundraiser for Smithfield Park District, which had been unused for the past 15 years.  She also serves on the Employee Benefit Fund Committee at Illinois River Correctional Center and comes in to the facility on her days off to help with events.  As her nomination reads, “She embraces anything she is asked to do or has a part in with passion and believes in doing for others.”

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Illinois Department of Corrections to feature display at Illinois State Fair

Display Theme:  Giving Back to the Community, Operations and Programs

SPRINGFIELD – Aug. 12, 2009 - The Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) will be featuring a large display located near Gate 2 (Peoria Rd. and Sangamon Ave.) at the Illinois State Fairgrounds. The fair begins Friday, Aug. 14, and runs through Sunday, Aug. 23. 

IDOC’s display theme this year includes inmates giving back to the community through public service projects, operations that focus on safety and security and programs that enhance reentry.  The agency operates 28 adult correctional centers and is responsible for the management of 45,000 inmates and 33,000 parolees. 

The Honor Guard will participate in the tent’s opening ceremony by presenting colors Aug. 14 at 11 a.m. The IDOC Honor Guard is a statewide team that provides details to present colors at funerals and graveside services, groundbreakings and dedications as well as other agency events.

The IDOC State Fair Committee encourages the public and employees to stop by during their visit to the fair. 

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Illinois Department of Corrections implements Employee Cost-Savings Suggestion Program

Springfield - July 31, 2009 - The Illinois Department of Corrections is implementing an Employee Cost-Savings Suggestion Program to achieve potential savings through employees submitting cost-saving ideas. 

"It is the role and responsibility of IDOC to operate efficiently and it is critical that the agency reduces spending," said Director Michael P. Randle. "All employees are encouraged to identify opportunities to cut costs as well as suggest lower cost alternatives needed to benefit IDOC operations."

Employees, who are represented by a union, can forward their cost-saving ideas to their local union representative.

An Employee Cost-Savings Suggestion Program link is also being featured on the IDOC website homepage. Employees can send their cost-saving ideas by filling out an electronic form. Employees are encouraged to be thorough in their explanation and, if possible, provide an estimated cost savings. 

All suggestions will be reviewed by a Labor/Management Committee. As the committee reviews the cost-saving suggestions, it will post how the suggestions are being addressed so employees will be able to track their suggestions as well as review other suggested cost-saving ideas.

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	Staff and inmate work crews provided nearly 37,650 hours cleaning up debris in 19 Southern Illinois communities following straight-line winds that reached more than 100 miles per hour in early May.

IDOC staff, inmate work crews complete disaster relief project in Southern Illinois following 100 mph straight-line wind storm

Agency supports communities, provides thousands of hours of relief efforts

SPRINGFIELD - June 24, 2009 - Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) staff and inmate work crews racked up nearly 37,650 hours cleaning up debris in Southern Illinois communities following straight-line winds that reached more than 100 miles per hour and wreaked havoc across the region. IDOC provided cleanup emergency relief in 19 towns, covering three counties.

"The agency's staff and inmate work crews have performed an excellent job," said IDOC Director Michael P. Randle. "The department work detail that began May 11 was expected to last well into the summer or early fall. However, due to the hard work and dedication of IDOC staff and offenders, the work was completed well ahead of schedule."

Cleanup was provided in the towns of Marion, Herrin, Carterville, Cambria, Crainville, Johnston City, Pittsburgh, Spillertown, Whiteash, Hurst, Bush and Colp in Williamson County; Murphysboro, Carbondale, Carbondale Township, Elkville and Grand Tower in Jackson County; and Galatia and Harco in Saline County.

Community officials praised the work of IDOC staff and inmate work crews. As noted in a recent article, Murphysboro Mayor Ron Williams said, "We had IDOT (Illinois Department of Transportation) trucks and Illinois Department of Corrections crews, along with our people. They performed wonderfully." Williams went on to say that "the progress that has been made has been astounding."

"IDOC is proud to play an important role with the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) in providing emergency assistance to communities in time of great need," Randle said. "Such projects allow citizens to see inmates working and giving back to the community as well as seeing taxpayers' money at work."

Randle added that disaster relief details teach inmates invaluable lessons by raising their self-esteem as they help people whose lives have been impacted by storms and floods.

"By providing this support, IDOC employees also build an excellent rapport with communities who are grateful for our services," Randle added. "When nature plays havoc, our staff is called out on a on a moment's notice to organize, coordinate and supervise inmate work details. I commend their leadership, professionalism and commitment to help in this effort."

District 3 Deputy Director Ron Meek serves as IDOC's coordinator for IEMA. Manager of Staff Development and Training Brian Adams, Taylorville Correctional Center Warden Greg Sims and Dwight Correctional Center Warden Carolyn Trancoso serve as the agency's liaisons to IEMA. Lt. John Eilers at Western Illinois Correctional Center, Lt. Jeff West at Danville Correctional Center and Sgt. Stacey McDannald at Jacksonville Correctional Center serve as IDOC field liaisons to IEMA, coordinating IDOC's resources, work crews and supervisory staff.

The partnership between IDOC and IEMA is unique. For years, Illinois was one of only several states in the country using inmates on disaster relief crews. As a result, IDOC and IEMA have built a solid foundation in helping hundreds of communities achieve successful results to demanding emergency relief projects.

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Taylorville Correctional Center reaches another milestone - Walls built for its 150th Habitat for Humanity house 
               
Partnership allows inmates to build housing components for Habitat for Humanity homes for low-income families

Springfield - May 13, 2009 - Taylorville Correctional Center reached another major milestone by constructing walls for its 150th house for Habitat for Humanity. The house will become the new home for a family in McLean County.

The program at Taylorville Correctional Center is a partnership between Building Homes: Rebuilding Lives, a program of Lutheran Social Services of Illinois (LSSI); Habitat for Humanity; the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) and IDOC Office of Adult Education and Vocational Services. The program enables inmates in the construction trades class at Taylorville to build housing components for Habitat for Humanity homes for low-income families. The class is provided through Lake Land College at Mattoon, which contracts with IDOC Office of Adult Education and Vocational Services.

"Building walls for 150 Habitat for Humanity houses is most noteworthy in the history of the Taylorville Correctional Center," said IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr. "Since the inception of the center, its mission is to prepare inmates for their eventual release and for positive and successful lives by helping them develop teamwork, self-discipline, self-esteem and self-worth as individuals. Programs, such as this one, are important factors in positive learning and rehabilitation."

Walker also noted the importance of reentry management and the agency's partnership with LSSI in the Building Homes: Rebuilding Lives Program.

"The Building Homes: Rebuilding Lives Program serves as an important component in the reentry management of inmates and also brings hope and dignity to communities through the building of Habitat for Humanity homes," Walker said. "Today inmates are given more opportunities for successful reentry into society than ever before through such rehabilitative programs and the agency's commitment to reentry management."

"LSSI and Habitat for Humanity began their partnership at Taylorville Correctional Center in 1999 with six homes being built here the first year," said Taylorville Warden Greg Sims. "Last year, the center built 14 homes for the program and this year the center has already built eight homes, which ultimately has contributed to its 150th house built for Habitat for Humanity."

David Sharpe has served as the Lake Land College instructor for the construction trades class at Taylorville Correctional Center for the past seven years. Materials for the homes are purchased through LSSI and the local Habitat affiliate and delivered to the Taylorville facility by a local lumber company. All interior and exterior walls are constructed at the facility and erected to ensure the components fit correctly. The walls are marked, disassembled and loaded on a semi-trailer. Illinois Correctional Industries Pana Warehouse typically arranges for the transportation. The walls are then delivered to the appropriate Habitat organization where volunteers from the community reassemble and finish the home.

"The most rewarding part of this program is when families receiving homes that were built here come back and thank the class," said Sims. "The inmates feel good about being able to give back to society. This program provides them with a feeling of accomplishment and purpose. It truly is a win-win situation. Through their efforts and teamwork, the inmates are demonstrating a desire to make positive changes in their lives while helping families in need."

"Throughout IDOC, there are numerous opportunities for offenders to give back to communities," said Walker. "Details of these programs teach them invaluable lessons. These programs benefit our communities, help offenders return to society as well as serve as a valuable asset to the taxpayer."

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Ten-year anniversary of IDOC's Women and Family Services Division focuses on best practices, gender responsive services and reentry management for the female offender

SPRINGFIELD - May 12, 2009 - This year marks the tenth anniversary of the Women and Family Services Division of the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC). The division, which was created in May 1999, serves as an important milestone in the recognition of the unique issues female offenders face. Within a secure atmosphere, the division provides a continuum of programs and services under the supervision of a well-trained professional staff, beginning at reception and continuing through parole.

"The Illinois Department of Corrections is dedicated to the rehabilitation and successful reentry of inmates into society," said IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr. "The programs under the Women and Family Services Division are designed to address the unique medical, social, psychological and education needs of the committed female offender. The division also serves the needs of the female offender by the development of special programs that recognize, support and maintain her parental role and responsibilities."

Institutions under the Women and Family Services Division are Dwight Correctional Center and the Kankakee Minimum Security Unit, which serves as Dwight's satellite facility, Decatur Correctional Center, Lincoln Correctional Center, Fox Valley Adult Transition Center (work release center), and Women's Treatment Center. The division's female inmate population currently averages about 2,700.

"The National Institute of Corrections and American Correctional Association have recognized Illinois for providing gender responsive services to offenders and the establishment of a division separate from the male division, which incorporates best practice strategies specific to the female population," said Deputy Director of Women and Family Services Debbie Denning. "The division operates under the assumptions that gender does make a difference as it relates to the custodial setting. The Division of Women and Family Services promotes programs that offer support in the areas of trauma, abuse, assertiveness, medical and mental health care, substance abuse, parenting and child reunification."

Treatment and services for women are based on women's competencies and strengths and promote self-reliance. Women focus groups are evident in the division, such as healing from trauma, domestic violence, sexual assault survivor and grief understanding groups and relationship building. Substance abuse treatment is designed to be specific to gender and deals with pathways into substance abusing behavior. To fully address the needs of women, the programs use a variety of interventions with behavioral, cognitive, effective, dynamic and systems perspectives. Gender responsive assessment tools and individualized treatment plans are used with appropriate treatment matched to the identified needs and assets of each offender. Spiritual programs also are encouraged and considered an important element of the holistic treatment concept.

"Children and families play an important role in the management of offenders in custodial settings," said Denning. "The Women and Family Services Division has created programs to maintain and strengthen family ties, particularly between parents and children."

All facilities within the division offer parenting programs for all levels of offenders. At the Decatur, Dwight, Lincoln and Fox Valley facilities, family activities range from day camps for mothers and children, video visiting programs, storybook programs, summer read programs, 4-H clubs and holiday activities for mothers and children.

In May 2007, IDOC's Women and Family Services Division also hosted a special ribbon cutting ceremony for the Moms and Babies Program at Decatur Correctional Center. The program allows qualified mothers to keep their newborn babies with them and supports the incarcerated mother in developing and nurturing a bond with her infant through effective programming and a safe and supportive living environment. The program also affords the opportunity to build a sound foundation for a strong family structure to continue upon release.

"The Mom and Babies program is designed to help strengthen the special bond that is critical to a healthy mother child relationship. This new program recognizes the parental role and responsibilities of the female offender and helps prepare her to take proper care of her child when she reenters society," said Denning. "The program gives moms and babies a good start together for a more productive life outside the confines of the correctional facility."

The Moms and Babies Program is a program that can currently accommodate five mothers and their babies, with a long-range goal of housing up to 20 mothers and babies. The Moms and Babies Program continues to be in the forefront of gender-responsive programming by providing opportunity for the incarcerated mother and her newborn to bond in a setting that nurtures physical and emotional health. Such programming helps to reduce recidivism and the chances of children someday continuing the cycle of incarceration.

Numerous opportunities in the areas of vocational education are available to the women offenders. An initiative of the division is the linkage between the vocational program and employers in the community who are willing to hire ex-offenders. The goal is to expand home-based business opportunities for the female offender as well as create a foundation for financial independence for the mother and her children. Currently women are being trained as service dog trainers, pet groomers, nail technicians, cosmetologists, computer specialists, building maintenance and in the culinary arts programs.

The division promotes cultural awareness and sensitivity through the resources and strengths available through staff, volunteers and community organizations. Mentoring programs are being developed to assist the incarcerated adult in bridging the gap between prison and community. Transitional programs are included as part of gender responsive practices, with a particular focus on building long-term community support networks for women. All facilities within the Women and Family Services Division have referral sources and funding for transitional assistance in housing, employment and educational needs. This support is through various grant-funded programs as well as through the department's Placement Resource Unit. Additionally, all women, who are released from the Women and Family Services Division, are given the opportunity to take home clothing donated by the community. The clothing ranges from casual to business attire. Donations are accepted by all of the facilities.

A final initiative is to become good neighbors to the community. Currently, the division participates in the following community service projects: Wigs for Kids donations, Harvest Walks for the Hungry, Project Linus, in which crocheted and quilted items are donated to critically ill children, and Special Olympics activities. Through joint participation by staff and offenders in these worthwhile projects, the division hopes to raise the level of awareness of volunteerism and good faith to the community.

Donations: The Women and Family Services Division is frequently contacted regarding donations. The division freely accepts women's clothing items, scrap material for quilts, crochet yarn, color paper for crafts, children's toys (without metal), religious materials and greeting card donations. To donate items, please contact the deputy director's office at the Decatur Correctional Center at 217-877-0353, ext. 422.

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Illinois Department of Corrections and Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice recognize Correctional Officers of the Year for 2009
Five front line employees awarded top honors

	Correctional Officer Sean Ballantini at Centralia Correctional Center was named 2009 Correctional Officer of the Year for the Adult Division. Featured from left are Centralia Correctional Center Warden Bradley Robert, Assistant Director Deanne Benos, Office of the Governor Deputy Chief of Staff Carolyn Brown Hodge, C.O. Sean Ballantini, Director Roger E. Walker Jr. and Chief of Staff James Reinhart.
	Correctional Officer Amanda Williams at Decatur Correctional Center was named the 2009 Correctional Officer of the Year for the Women and Family Services Division. Featured from left are Decatur Correctional Center Warden Christine Boyd, W&FS Deputy Director Debbie Denning, Assistant Director Deanne Benos, Office of the Governor Deputy Chief of Staff Carolyn Brown Hodge, C.O. Amanda Williams and Director Roger E. Walker Jr.
	Correctional Residence Counselor I Lavond Borders at Jessie "Ma" Houston Adult Transition Center was named the 2009 Correctional Residence Counselor of the Year for the Community Corrections Division. Featured from left are Jesse "Ma" Houston ATC Supervisor Darryl Coleman, Assistant Director Deanne Benos, Deputy Director of Community Relations Barbara Hurt, Office of the Governor Deputy Chief of Staff Carolyn Brown Hodge, CRC I Lavond Borders and Director Roger E. Walker Jr.
	Parole Agent Gary Phillips at Dixon Parole Office, District 2, was named the 2009 Parole Agent of the Year for IDOC. Featured from left are Deputy Director Parole Operations and Security Jason Garnett, Assistant Director Deanne Benos, Office of the Governor Deputy Chief of Staff Carolyn Brown Hodge, Parole Agent Gary Phillips and Director Roger E. Walker Jr.
	Juvenile Justice Specialist Gabriel Bedolla at Illinois Youth Center Chicago was named the 2009 Juvenile Justice Specialist of the Year for the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice. Featured from left are IYC-Chicago Superintendent Earl Merritt, Office of the Governor Deputy Chief of Staff Carolyn Brown Hodge, JJS Gabriel Bedolla, Director Kurt Friedenauer, Deputy Director of Operations Ron Smith and Deputy Director of Programs Janice Shallcross.

SPRINGFIELD - May 5, 2009 - The Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) and the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice (IDJJ) today honored five outstanding front line employees as 2009 Correctional Officers of the Year at a ceremony in Springfield.

The winners were chosen from a field of 49 nominees, who were nominated for the award by their colleagues. The overall winners were chosen by the departments' executive staff.

IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr. and IDJJ Director Friedenauer commended the efforts of front line staff within their respective agencies.

"Correctional Officers' Week recognizes the excellence of correctional workers throughout the U.S.," said Walker. "The dedicated men and women at the Illinois Department of Corrections serve the agency with steadfast commitment in operating one of the safest, largest prison systems in the nation. They bring distinction to the job each and every day and to their communities. In addition to ensuring the safety and security of our prison system, they also are leaders in their communities. Many of the agency's employees also have served or are currently serving in the military to protect our country."

"The Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice is committed to helping youth get back on the right track and avoid a cycle of prison. The agency is dedicated to providing treatment and educational, vocational, social and emotional services to the state's young offenders to assist them in becoming responsible adults," said Friedenauer. "The agency's staff is dedicated to this effort. The employees being recognized today are commended for their commitment and support toward this goal."

Nominations for this year's award recognize front line staff at each of the state's 28 prisons, eight juvenile centers, eight adult transition centers and five parole districts. This year's top five front line employees were presented with recognition letters from the governor and IDOC and IDJJ directors and a $500 check from the Employee Benefit Fund. The nominees are judged on leadership, initiative, professionalism and service to their community and career.

Employees receiving top honors during a ceremony at IDOC and IDJJ General Headquarters in Springfield are:

Correctional Officer Sean Ballantini at Centralia Correctional Center

Correctional Officer Sean Ballantini is currently assigned as Receiving Unit Dayroom officer on the 7-3 shift. His initiative and follow-up skills were evident when he confiscated contraband hidden in the seam and hem of an inmate coat. This led to county jail authorities to also finding contraband being discovered at the jail.

Correctional Officer Amanda Williams at Decatur Correctional Center

Correctional Officer Amanda Williams, while maintaining a heavy workload, always comes to work with a positive attitude and is a morale booster for staff. She is committed to doing the best job possible. She is professional and courteous when working with visitors, offenders and staff. She volunteers to help wherever assistance is needed and does an outstanding job where she is assigned. She completes her duties with little or no supervision.

Correctional Residence Counselor I Lavond Borders at Jessie "Ma" Houston Adult Transition Center

Correctional Residence Counselor 1 Lavond Borders has received numerous awards for her commitment of coordinating and contributing to programs that unified the residents and their families. As the recreation and activity coordinator, she oversees and coordinates events, such as the resident clothing drive, intramural basketball, chess and dominoes tournaments and holiday and educational events. She is skilled and proficient at her assigned duties.

Parole Agent Gary Phillips at Dixon Parole Office, District 2

Parole Agent Gary Phillips has been temporary assigned as parole supervisor of the Dixon Parole Office. During his time in this assignment, he has exemplified the attitude, performance and leadership of a seasoned veteran supervisor. Agent Phillips has been masterful in the handling of staff. Through his listening and explaining reasons for action, he has created a positive and pleasant working atmosphere. His positive attitude and self-initiative to complete all functions of the supervisor position has led to developing his skills to a level that requires minimal supervision.

Juvenile Justice Specialist Gabriel Bedolla at Illinois Youth Center Chicago

Juvenile Justice Specialist Gabriel Bedolla is a 13-year veteran of the department assigned to IYC Chicago since 2001. Since arriving at IYC Chicago, Specialist Bedolla has served in key positions, including drug screener, hazardous material instructor for cycle training, radio communications officer, Spanish speaking translator, Intelligence Unit officer and shift supervisor. During his time in Intel, Specialist Bedolla has provided assistance to the Chicago Police Department during joint operations and has been commended for his service and professional approach to his assignments. Those who supervise Specialist Bedolla have routinely noted that he exceeds expectations in the areas of job knowledge, productivity, quality and initiative.

Other facility nominees include:

Nominee list for 2009

EDITOR'S NOTE:
Contact Derek Schnapp at 217-558-0518 or Januari Smith at 217-558-1544 for interview requests.

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Illinois Department of Public Health Suggested Work Place Information

Swine Influenza - Recommendations for Work Place Settings

Springfield - April 29, 2009 - Research has shown that one of the most powerful weapons against the spread of respiratory illness, including any strain of influenza, is simply improving hand hygiene.  The following steps are recommended to prevent transmission of disease in the work place.  Visit www.idph.state.il.us or www.cdc.gov/swineflu/ for additional information.

Keep the work environment clean and make sure cleaning supplies are available.

• Clean frequently touched surfaces, including door knobs and stair rails, and commonly shared items at least daily and when visibly soiled.
• Use an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered disinfectant labeled for activity against bacteria and viruses or a bleach solution.  Always follow label instructions.  If bleach solution is used, mix 1/4 cup chlorine bleach with one (1) gallon of cool water; prepare fresh solution daily and use within 24 hours.
• Clean shared work areas such as desktops and tables between each shift or more often if possible. 
• Discourage sharing of telephones if possible; if sharing is unavoidable telephones should be cleaned between shared use.
• Remind staff to clean their hands (i.e., hand washing with soap and water or use of an alcohol-based hand gel) after cleaning and disinfecting environmental surfaces and items. 

Remind staff to clean hands frequently.

• Ensure that rest rooms are supplied with soap and paper towels or working hand dryers.
• Advise staff to clean their hands frequently.  Staff should wash hands with soap and water frequently and whenever visibly soiled.  Alcohol-based hand gels (containing at least 60% alcohol) should be used when soap and water are not available and hands are not visibly dirty.  Staff should wash hands before meals and after using the restroom.
• Remind staff that frequent hand cleaning will help protect them from germs.  When washing hands, use soap and warm water and wash for 20 seconds.  If paper towels are available, use paper towel to turn off the faucet.

Remind staff to cover their noses and mouths when sneezing or coughing.

• Advise staff to use a tissue to cover their nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing and to put the used tissue into a trash receptacle.
• Provide conveniently located trash receptacles so that used tissues can be promptly discarded.
• Encourage staff to wash their hands or use an alcohol-based hand gel as soon as possible, if they have sneezed or coughed on their hands. Hands also should be cleaned after using tissues.

Post the CDC "Cover Your Cough" poster in rest rooms, break rooms and work areas as a visual reminder of appropriate hygiene practices.  The poster can be downloaded at http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/pdf/covercough_school8-5x11.pdf

Governor Pat Quinn kicks off Earth Day by implementing green practices at the Executive Mansion
New executive order signed to reduce state agencies' impact on the environment

	Featured with Governor Pat Quinn, from left are Illinois Correctional Industries employees Dave Sapp, Sal Raymond and Rich Mautino. ICI made and delivered the rain barrels installed at the Governor's Mansion.

SPRINGFIELD - April 22, 2009.  On Earth Day, Governor Pat Quinn announced a new effort to make the Illinois Executive Mansion a greener place on the inside and the outside - by installing light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs and using rain barrels.  Governor Quinn also signed an executive order to reduce the environmental impact of state government operations.

"It is important to make the Land of Lincoln green for future generations," said Governor Quinn.  "The effort to make the people's house more energy efficient sets an example for everyone to follow."

LED bulbs are replacing incandescent light bulbs at the Executive Mansion to cut down on energy use. More than 350 LED bulbs are being donated to the mansion by The LED Way of Skokie and Polybrite International. So far, 122 LED bulbs have been installed.  Each LED bulb can last up to 50,000 hours and uses 90 percent less electricity than a regular light bulb.  According to an energy savings calculation by The LED Way, placing just 122 LED bulbs in the mansion will save more than $4,500 per year and nearly $60,000 over the lifetime of these bulbs.

Our state has especially close ties to the LED bulb, as it was created by an Illinoisan. Nick Holonyak, of Zeigler, Illinois, invented the energy saving bulb back in 1962.  Holonyak is a professor at the University of Illinois at Urbana's Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering.

Six rain barrels are being placed around the grounds of the mansion to capture rain water that will be used to water the gardens.  Not only will using rain barrels help reduce the water bill at the mansion - the rain water is also better for plants than chlorinated water.  One inch of rainfall on a typical residential roof can produce 625 gallons of water, which is enough to fill 11 rain barrels.

The rain barrels are green for a few other reasons: Illinois Correctional Industries is making them out of plastic barrels that were previously used for recycling, and they are delivering the rain barrels to the mansion in a biodiesel truck.  Governor Quinn has long been an advocate for rain barrels and would like to make Illinois the rain barrel capital of the world.

Governor Quinn also signed an executive order to reduce the environmental impact of Illinois state government operations.  The executive order directs state agencies to lead by example in waste prevention, energy efficiency and conservation, procurement, and water quality and conservation.  By implementing these sustainability practices, agencies will not only benefit the quality of our air, land and water; they will also save Illinois taxpayers' money by reducing utility bills, waste disposal fees, and other operating costs.

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	Featured are Assistant Warden of Programs at Dwight Correctional Center Dorretta O'Brien, Chief of Community Outreach Shelith Hansbro, IDOC Volunteer of the Year Grace Johnson, Manager of Volunteer Services Marcy Morris and Deputy Director of Women and Family Services Debbie Denning.

Grace Johnson at Dwight Correctional Center named as the Illinois Department of Corrections 2009 Volunteer of the Year
“Volunteers are Worth their Weight in Gold”

SPRINGFIELD - April 14, 2009 – Grace Johnson at Dwight Correctional Center was named the recipient of the 2009 Volunteer of the Year award at a recognition ceremony held today in Springfield.  Johnson was among volunteers of the state's 28 adult correctional centers and eight adult transition centers, who were being honored for their outstanding leadership and dedicated efforts in providing positive change in the lives of inmates.

“All of our volunteers are special, whether they are a veteran volunteer or just recently joined the department, they help us fill the gaps in preparing inmates for a better tomorrow,” said IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr.  “This year's theme, ‘Volunteers are Worth their Weight in Gold,’ reflects the importance of volunteerism within the state’s prison system. Without the assistance of the agency’s volunteers, IDOC could not provide the needed programs and services that help prepare inmates for a successful return to society, especially during these tough economic times.”

Johnson is being recognized for numerous outstanding achievements at Dwight Correctional Center.  She was the first volunteer at the center who began collecting greeting cards for offenders to write their families.  When storage space was lacking, she used her basement as a repository to collect and store cards until they were needed.  This was just the beginning of her ministry at the prison.

Johnson also has served with Lutheran Social Services for many years, transporting children to and from the facility to visit with their mothers and ensuring that their visit was a memorable one.  Many times, Johnson has noted that “it is the children who always suffer.  It’s not their fault.”   
At the chapel “Children’s Center,” Johnson has volunteered her time watching over the offender’s children while they visited with their mothers and helped them find books, toys and games. She also has faithfully assisted with “Camp Celebration,” a program that brings mothers and children together to restore and strengthen their relationship.  In addition, she ensures Easter baskets are distributed to children visiting the center.

Over the years, Johnson also has assisted as an ambassador with various tours, such as “Bring Your Kid to Work Day” and Church Women United.  From its inception at the center, she has been involved with the “Crop Walk,” a program that supports the hungry.  She also helps with the “The Closet,” a program that collects donated clothes and assists women, who are being released from prison, to dress for going home.

The impact of her volunteerism is summarized in an excerpt of her nomination, which reads:  “This year’s volunteer of the year is a fixture of servant hood. She brings stability and continuity to staff and offenders alike.  For many years, she faithfully stood beside her husband, Chaplain Phil Johnson, sharing the love and life that God has given her.  Since his passing, she has continued a mission of grace, focused on the women of Dwight.  Her servant’s heart has enriched our lives forever.” 

At IDOC, volunteers assist in various ways, ranging from mentoring and meeting the religious needs of inmates to offering alcohol and drug rehabilitation such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous. Volunteers tutor, hold church services and Bible studies as well as parenting, art, music, poetry and literacy classes.  

In all, the efforts reach farther than just inside the prison walls.  For example, because of Lutheran Social Services Storybook Ministry, inmates are encouraged to achieve religious and educational goals, develop self-esteem and parenting skills.  During this past year, the outreach ministry held 76 story book events statewide, with nearly 3,000 incarcerated mothers and fathers reading more than 4,000 books to their children.

At IDOC, some 6,500 volunteers provide programs and services that otherwise would not be available to the incarcerated men and women. During the past year, volunteers have donated more than $3.5 million in time and goods to the incarcerated. The agency is responsible for managing more than 80,000 inmates and parolees.
Those interested in the Volunteer Services Program at IDOC can contact Marcy Morris, volunteer services manager, at 217-558-2200 ext. 6101.

Governor Pat Quinn to keep Pontiac Correctional Center open  

Cites fiscal responsibility and job security for the nearly 600 employees and their families

SPRINGFIELD – March 12, 2009 - Governor Quinn announced that he will keep Pontiac Correctional Center open.  The decision is another step in Governor Quinn’s efforts to ensure greater fiscal responsibility in state government – the prison provides nearly 600 jobs and generates an approximate $54.4 million in revenue for the region.

“Especially in these tough economic times, we must be more fiscally responsible,” said Governor Quinn. “Keeping Pontiac Correctional Center open will ensure nearly 600 people in the region keep their jobs, prevent hundreds of families from being uprooted, and allow Pontiac to maintain one of its largest sources of revenue.”

On May 2, 2008, then Governor Rod R. Blagojevich announced Pontiac Correctional Center would close by the end of 2008.  Under that plan, the nearly 600 employees, more than 1,600 inmates, and the facility’s operating budget were to be transferred to the Thomson Correctional Center, located in Carroll County in northwest Illinois.

However, the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability (COGFA), which studies and provides recommendations on local and regional economic and fiscal policies, released a memorandum on Sept. 23, 2008, citing its unanimous vote (9-0) against the closure of the Pontiac Correctional Center.

Central Illinois lawmakers, elected officials, and community action groups have been vocal supporters of keeping Pontiac open, citing security of the employees and inmates as an additional reason to maintain the Pontiac facility. 

The center is the state’s only facility that provides single cells for most maximum-security inmates.  Housing two maximum-security inmates in a single cell significantly increases the risk of violence.

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	Gov. Pat Quinn announced March 5 at the Metropolis Community Center that nine southern Illinois counties will receive federal disaster funds for ice storm recovery. Featured are Sgt. Stacey McDannald of Jacksonville Correctional Center, Gov. Quinn, Lt. Jeff West of Danville Correctional Center and Lt. John Eilers of Western Illinois Correctional Center.

Governor Quinn announces nine southern Illinois counties will receive federal aid for ice storm recovery  

IDOC staff and inmate work crews continue to provide cleanup to region

METROPOLIS – March 5, 2009 – Governor Pat Quinn formally announced March 5 at the Metropolis Community Center that President Barack Obama approved the state’s request for federal assistance for nine southern Illinois counties that were damaged by a severe winter storm in January.

“This ice storm was devastating to southern Illinois,” Governor Quinn said in a Governor’s Office press release. “It is very reassuring, especially during these tough economic times, to know these nine counties will receive federal financial assistance so that southern Illinois can continue to move forward with the recovery process.”

Earlier this year, Governor Quinn issued a state disaster declaration for Alexander, Gallatin, Hardin, Johnson, Massac, Pope, Pulaski, Saline and Union counties.  All of those counties are included in the federal disaster declaration, which allows local governments, municipally-owned utilities and electric power cooperatives to recover 75 percent of expenses associated with the ice storm.

“January’s ice storm dealt a tough blow to a part of southern Illinois that experienced another ice storm and major flooding in the past year,” said Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) Director Andrew Velasquez III.  “This federal declaration is great news because it will help these counties recoup much of their response and recovery costs related to the storm.”

Assessment teams with the IEMA and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) met with officials in the affected areas and determined the costs incurred for response and recovery from the storm could add up to more than $16 million.  

IDOC staff and inmate work crews continue to play a vital role in helping restore stability to communities through massive cleanup projects. Since early February 2009, IDOC staff and inmate work crews have logged in more than 12,000 hours in cleanup efforts following the ice storm that swept through southern Illinois.

“Supporting communities in their time of need is an important mission for the agency,” said IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr. “I commend the professionalism and leadership of our staff, who coordinate these efforts and supervise inmate work details. These details also teach inmates important lessons and raise their self-esteem by allowing them to give back to the community.”

In response to the ice storm cleanup project, IDOC has provided staff and inmate labor from Dixon Springs and DuQuoin Impact Incarceration Programs and Hardin County and Tamms Work Camps for debris removal in the communities of Metropolis, Brookport and Joppa in Massac County; Rosiclare, Elizabethtown and Cave-In-Rock in Hardin County; Golconda and Eddyville in Pope County; Mounds, Mound City, Karnak, Olmsted, New Grand Chain, Perks, Wetaug, Villa Ridge and Pulaski in Pulaski County; Cairo, Urbandale, Klondike, Hodges Park, Unity and Sandusky in Alexander County; and Vienna, Belknap, Reevesville and Cypress in Johnson County. The cleanup project is expected to last until early April.

Deputy Director Ron Meek serves as IDOC's coordinator for the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA). Dwight Correctional Center Warden Carolyn Trancoso and Manager of Staff Development and Training Brian Adams serve as the agency's liaisons to IEMA. Lt. John Eilers at Western Illinois Correctional Center, Lt. Jeff West at Danville Correctional Center and Sgt. Stacey McDannald at Jacksonville Correctional Center serve as IDOC field liaisons to IEMA, coordinating IDOC's resources, work crews and supervisory staff.

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	IDOC SECA ambassadors were recognized Feb. 25 for their efforts at an appreciation banquet at IDOC general headquarters. Featured are IDOC SECA Board Member Cherri Harp, Deputy Director of District 2 Eddie Jones, SECA Administrator Cindy Dixon, Chief of Community Outreach Shelith Hansbro, United Way of Central Illinois Board Member John Kelker and IDOC SECA Board Member Brigitte Smith.

IDOC SECA ambassadors recognized for their efforts in the 2008 SECA Campaign

IDOC remains highest giving state agency to SECA for eight consecutive years

SPRINGFIELD – Feb. 26, 2009 – State and University Employees Combined Appeal (SECA) ambassadors of the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) were recognized for their outstanding efforts in educating employees about the gift of giving to the SECA Campaign at a banquet held Feb. 25 at IDOC general headquarters. IDOC for the eighth consecutive year has been the highest giving agency to SECA. This year, IDOC employees donated more than $290,000.

“In our communities, IDOC employees are often the humble ones, the ones who go unnoticed. Everyday they go to work to help ensure that our communities are safe and secure,” said Director Roger E. Walker Jr. “And, year in and year out, they continue to demonstrate their friendship, kindness and the willingness to help make a difference in the lives of others by giving to the SECA Campaign. Every year, it is an honor and a pleasure to recognize them for their humble generosity.”

During the event, Chief of Community Outreach Shelith Hansbro and others expressed their appreciation and talked about the important of reaching out to help others.

“For the past 25 years, SECA has made great steps by raising nearly $56 million dollars and helping millions of Illinois citizens through the generous contributions of state and university employees,” said Hansbro. “It is truly wonderful how IDOC employees continue to give whole-heartedly to SECA even during tough economic times. These donations to deserving charities have a significant impact in making our communities better places to live and helping those who are struggling to have a better life.”

Honorary guests included SECA Administrator Cindy Dixon and United Way of Central Illinois Board Member John Kelker. Others providing presentations and remarks were Deputy Director of District II Eddie Jones, SECA Board Members Brigitte Smith and Cherri Harp of IDOC General Headquarters and IDOC SECA Ambassador Melodie Ainslie of Centralia Correctional Center.

For more information about SECA and its member charities, log on to the SECA web site at www.secaillinois.org.

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	Director Walker and Chief of Community Outreach Shelith Hansbro addressed female offenders at Decatur Correctional Center in recognition of Black History Month. Featured are (left) Chief Hansbro, Deputy Director of Women and Family Services Debbie Denning, Director Walker, Decatur Warden Christine Boyd and Confidential Assistant to the Director Brigitte Smith.

Director Walker, Chief Hansbro address offenders in recognition of Black History Month at Decatur Correctional Center

Springfield – Feb. 6, 2009 – In recognition of Black History Month, IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr. and Chief of Community Outreach Shelith Hansbro addressed female offenders at Decatur Correctional Center on Feb. 6. The theme of Walker’s speech focused on the many achievements of African Americans throughout history, both then and now, highlighting on Martin Luther King Jr. and President Barack Obama.

“Today, the dream is still alive,” Walker said, reflecting on King’s 1963 “I Have a Dream” speech. In that speech, King dreamed of a nation where people ‘will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character.’

“Today, there is still hope and promise,” said Walker. “I have seen it personally. If you are determined, committed and demonstrate good character, you can accomplish many things. In my own life, I am proud and honored to become the first African American sheriff in Illinois.”

In his remarks, Walker talked about the strength of faith and quoted Martin Luther King noting that ‘faith is taking the first step, even when you don't see the whole staircase.’

“Today, you can take that first step,” Walker said to the female offenders. “I couldn’t see that entire staircase 37 years ago in my career, but I took that first step. And through faith and the love of God, it has taken me to great heights.”

Walker also reflected on Barack Obama, the nation’s first African American president, who was sworn in to office Jan. 20, 2009.

“Today, the nation has seen the dream become a reality,” Walker added. “That reality is President Barack Obama.”

Walker pointed out that the dream is shared throughout America.

“We are the generation for change, hope and peace,” he said. “During this generation, we can make a better life for ourselves and our children.”

Hansbro also mirrored those words as she spoke to the female offenders. Hansbro and her family witnessed President Obama’s inauguration in Washington, D.C.

“I wanted my children to see that people of all races can achieve great things,” she said. “My children may be too young now to realize the importance of that historical day. But as they become older, I know it will be quite significant to them.”

Hansbro stressed to the female offenders that they and their children have the opportunity to also rise and achieve their dreams through hard work, determination and making the right choices.

“Your journey is just beginning,” she said. “It’s not just about race. You can all strive to make a better life for yourself and your children. All of us want you to be successful as you reenter society.”

Illinois Correctional Employees Memorial Association (ICEMA)
Scholarship Program Application available on ICEMA website

Application deadline is March 15, 2009

SPRINGFIELD – Jan. 20, 2009 - The Illinois Correctional Employees Memorial Association (ICEMA) will be awarding scholarships to members of ICEMA and their children seeking to pursue secondary and higher education during the upcoming academic year.

Applications and guidelines are now available at ICEMA's Internet site at www.icema.us. Interested applicants should complete the application and return all documentation to ICEMA Scholarship Committee, P.O. Box 5417, Springfield, Illinois 62705-5417. Applications must be postmarked by March 15, 2009.

To be considered, requirements must be met and all information must be completed for the application to be considered. All applicants must be permanent Illinois residents and an ICEMA member in good standing or the family member of an ICEMA member.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: ICEMA scholarship funds are intended to assist students with the cost of tuition and fees. No funds can be used for housing or any other incurred expenses. Funds must be used during the regular school year and cannot be used for summer courses. If tuition is paid in full by any other scholarship, grant or other financial aid, the ICEMA scholarship cannot be used.

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	Director Roger E. Walker Jr. presents the first place trophy to the East Moline Correctional Center team. From left are Correctional Officer Mark Miller, Correctional Lt. Joe Arnold, Director Roger E. Walker Jr. and Correctional Officers Chad Karenke and Ryan Rivera.

Director's Combined Weapons Match attracts 12 correctional center teams

East Moline Correctional Center team wins first place

SPRINGFIELD - Nov. 14, 2008 – East Moline Correctional Center placed first in the Annual Director's Combined Weapons Match held Oct. 24 at Taylorville Correctional Center’s firing range. Twelve institutional teams participated in the match.

"The agency is proud of the skills and teamwork of its employees," said Director Roger E. Walker Jr. "I’d like to congratulate all of the participants and thank everyone who helped make this year's match a success."

Until 2006, East Moline Correctional Center had taken first place 11 consecutive times. In 2006, Hill Correctional Center won first and East Moline placed second. In 2007, East Moline again placed first as well as this year. The East Moline pistol team competition score was 4040 – 107X out of a possible score of 4240. Jacksonville Correctional Center team placed second with a score of 3905 – 76X and Hill Correctional Center placed third with a score of 3806 –70X.

Director Walker presented the first place trophy to East Moline Correctional Center team members Correctional Officer Mark Miller, Correctional Lt. Joe Arnold and Correctional Officers Chad Karenke and Ryan Rivera. Director Walker also presented the Top Shooter Award to individual match winner Correctional Officer Chad Karenke, who had a high individual score of 1024X – 23X out of a possible score of 1060 and Lt. Joe Arnold for the second highest individual score of 1013 – 34X.

Major Cecil Polley, special operations commander and a coordinator of the competition, pointed out that the efforts of many employees contributed to the success of the event.

“I want to thank Warden Greg Sims of the Taylorville Correctional Center and all the staff who were involved in making this event a success,” Polley said. “A special thanks also goes out to Food Supervisors Wes Davis and Kirk Lentz for preparing and serving the lunch meal, Correctional Industries for the meat samples and Marcy Morris for her help with additional food items".

Polley also noted that with the help of William Deiters of Lincoln Correctional Center, this year’s event had a donation of equipment items to help support the match. Polley additionally extended his thanks to Michelle Hunt, Missy Huber and Lori Killam for their efforts with registration and recording scores.

“To the best of my knowledge, this is the 24th year of the Director’s Combined Weapons Match,” Polley added. “With the continued support of everyone, we look forward to next year’s match.”

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National Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice – Illinois Conference held Oct. 9-10 in Bloomington

“Accept the Challenge, Stay the Course, Achieve the Goal”

SPRINGFIELD – Oct. 16, 2008 - The Illinois Chapters of the National Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice Conference and Training Institute was held Oct. 9-10 in Bloomington. This year's theme, “ Accept the Challenge, Stay the Course, Achieve the Goal,” focused on the path of those in the criminal justice field must take to be successful.

“One of the most powerful tools in the world is education,” said IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr., who served as keynote speaker. “Education is the key that will unlock the door to freedom. It doesn't really matter where we have come from, but education and hard work will determine where we go. Preparation is the key to success.”

Walker also noted that it's important to be willing to change.

“The world is constantly evolving and we must be willing to change,” he said. “In the words of John F. Kennedy, ‘Change is the law of life, and those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future.'”

“The goal of having such a conference is to ensure that there are opportunities to address issues that we face as criminal justice professionals in the workplace,” said NABCJ Central Illinois Area President Marcus Hardy. “ In addition, we strive to create an environment of professional networking that is conducive to positive growth and development.”

The conference, which was attended by some 100 people, included attendees from local law enforcement, social service and support agencies and IDOC employees representing security, education, parole, program services and administrative and executive staff.

While all lifetime and NABCJ Illinois Charter members were honored, four of the 27 founding members of NABCJ in Illinois were honored with Pioneer Awards at the conference for their continued dedication to NABCJ. They were Deputy Director of Community Corrections Barbara Hurt, Mary Hardy-Hall-Randolph and Jimmie Daniels (retirees of IDOC) and former IDOC Director Howard A. Peters III. In accepting his award, Peters pointed out that the goals and mission of NABCJ Illinois are just as important now as they were when it was founded.

Lifetime members in Illinois also include Mary Bennett, Jimmie Daniels, Alex Dawson, Jimmie Ellis, Willie Holton-Halbert, Dr. Jacqueline Lawshea-Mitchell, Ralph McNabb, Howard a. Peters III, Pearlene Redd-Pitchford, Austin Randolph, Mary Hardy-Hall-Randolph, and Odie Washington. 

Workshops included Race to Execution, a look at wrongful convictions; Reentry Programming; Alternative Dispute Resolution; Steps to Financial Success-from Debt to Wealth; Substance Abuse; State Employee Retirement System; and Early Detection Tests You Need to Know.

This year's conference was hosted by the Central Illinois Area Chapter of NABCJ. The NABCJ Illinois Chapters is comprised of the Greater Illinois Area headed by President Alex Dawson, Central Illinois Area headed by President Marcus Hardy and the Windy City Area headed by President Jimmie Daniels.

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	Menard Correctional Center's team won the Men's Championship, defending their title for the third-time win, at the Director's Golf Outing hosted by ICEMA. Featured from left are Correctional Officer Jason Furlow, Bobby Diehl, IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr., Warden Don Hulick and Correctional Sgt. Larry Wingerter.

ICEMA holds Director's Golf Outing

SPRINGFIELD – Sept. 30, 2008 - The Illinois Correctional Employees Memorial Association (ICEMA) held the Director's Golf Outing Sept. 19 at Red Tail Run Golf Course in Decatur with 36 teams teeing off during the day long event. The outing raised more than $7,000 for the 2009 ICEMA scholarship awards.

Winning teams included:

• 1st Flight Men's Championship Team: Menard Correctional Center Team, led by Warden Don Hulick, defended their title for the third-time win.
• 1st Flight Co-Ed Team: IYC Warrenville/Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice
• 1st Flight Women's Team: Women and Family Services, led by Deputy Director Debbie Denning.
• 2nd Flight Men's Championship Teams: Wexford Health
• 2nd Flight Co-Ed Team: Women in Corrections with Acting CEO of Illinois Correctional Industries Donna Lindemulder and crew
• 2nd Flight Women's Team: Co-Ed Team: Dixon Correctional Center and Central Accounting

Nine sponsors for the event donated prizes and funds. Golfers received a “goodie” bag of prizes, including golf accessories, towels, cups and calendars. Following each flight, a meal was served and the winners received golf awards and raffle prizes.

“Over the past few years, ICEMA has awarded more than $400,000 in scholarships to the children of ICEMA members. Each year, more scholarships are awarded than the prior year and thanks to the Director's Golf Outing, the number will increase in 2009,” said ICEMA President Austin S. Randolph Jr., who serves as warden of Logan Correctional Center.

ICEMA, a non-profit corporation, was incorporated on Oct. 26, 1999, to honor those correctional employees who gave their lives in the line of duty. On May 10, 2001, the groundbreaking for the memorial began. One year later, on May 9, 2002, the dedication of the Memorial Wall in conjunction with the Correctional Officer of the Year Ceremony was held at the Illinois Department of Corrections headquarters. The event recognized those employees who made the ultimate sacrifice and the agency's correctional officers who help shape the future of Corrections through their professionalism and leadership. Now, on an annual basis, ICEMA hosts the Memorial Wall Remembrance and Correctional Officer of the Year Ceremony.

The Illinois Department of Corrections' fallen heroes will never be forgotten. The names of those who made the ultimate sacrifice are inscribed on granite blocks featured on both sides of the memorial wall. 

To learn more about ICEMA, visit its website at www.icema.us.

	Deputy Director of Women and Family Services Debbie Denning received the Distinguished Woman in Corrections Award for her commitment to excellence on the job. Office Administrator III Linda Bradbury at Taylorville Correctional Center was presented the Humanitarian Award for her service and dedication to humanity and contributions to society. From left are IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr., Debbie Denning, Linda Bradbury and Taylorville Correctional Center Warden Greg Sims.

Women in Corrections-Illinois holds 2nd annual conference in Effingham

“Women are Great in 2008” attracts nearly 500 attendees

SPRINGFIELD - Sept. 15, 2008 - The Women in Corrections-Illinois 2nd Annual Conference held Sept. 2-4 at the Thelma Keller Convention Center in Effingham attracted nearly 500 attendees, who included participants, presenters, sponsors and vendors. This year's theme, “Women are Great in 2008,” focused on the diversity of women in corrections, the vital role they play, the challenges they face and the importance of personal and professional development. Conference topics included Changing the Face of Corrections from Dress Pants and Loafers to Dresses and Stilettos, Leadership at All Levels, Workplace Climate and Culture, Women's Health Issues and A Woman's Common Sense to Investing.

Keynote speakers included motivational speaker Deb DiSandro, who provided an entertaining presentation on “ What's your Purse-onality?” DiSandro delved deeply into the depths of a purse for insights into a woman's unique personality and life circumstance. Director of Substance Abuse for the Tennessee Department of Correction Kenneth L. Osborne also served as a keynote speaker. Osborne's message focused on leadership and handling situations in the work and home environment.

Director Roger E. Walker Jr. and Assistant Director Deanne Benos were among many who welcomed attendees.

“I salute the women who work in all capacities of corrections,” Walker said. “In corrections, we value a diverse workforce. And as a team, we all work together to meet the goals of our mission.”

“The State of Illinois is leading the nation in its efforts to reduce crime and recidivism as a result of the Governor's successful reentry initiatives,” Benos said. “In our jobs, we help ensure that the day someone enters a correctional institution is the day we begin planning for their release in preparing the individual for a productive life and a successful community reentry .”

Deputy Director of Programs and Support Services Roberta Fews, who serves as the executive chair for WIC-Illinois, pointed out that the only thing that separates women in corrections is geography.

“We may come from different backgrounds, but we all play a significant role in shaping the future of corrections,” Fews said.

Fews also pointed out that the success of the past two conferences demonstrates that “WIC-Illinois is moving forward to becoming a truly significant organization dedicated to sharing a commitment to excellence on the job.”

Other highlights of the event included the Mayor of Effingham John J. Lange welcoming the director and the conference participants to the City of Effingham at the Director's Reception at Lake Sara.

In addition, Deputy Director of Women and Family Services Debbie Denning received the Distinguished Woman in Corrections Award for her commitment to excellence on the job. Office Administrator III Linda Bradbury at Taylorville Correctional Center was presented the Humanitarian Award for her service and dedication to humanity as well as her many contributions to society.

Denning was recognized for her 23 years of dedicated service to IDOC where she has remained a constant in her abilities to be professional, committed, creative, a leader and compassionate. Her understanding of the department has paved the way for programs such as the Moms and Babies Program at Decatur Correctional Center and the Lifestyle Redirection Program, which has expanded statewide. Both programs have made substantial differences in the lives of offenders in preparing them for a more successful reentry into society.

Bradbury has been an active member of the American Red Cross since 2005. In November 2005, she spent nearly a month in Florida assisting low-income and elderly victims of Hurricane Wilma. In March 2006, she volunteered to work through the night at a shelter in Springfield, Ill., following a tornado. In 2007, Bradbury worked the wildfires in California and the floods in Minnesota . In early 2008, she worked the floods in Northern Illinois. She also responds to numerous fire calls in Springfield. She has taken numerous classes through the American Red Cross and the Illinois Emergency Management Agency. She continues to volunteer and is on call with the Springfield Red Cross Chapter.

National Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice – Illinois Conference to be held Oct. 9-10 in Bloomington

SPRINGFIELD - Aug. 14, 2008 - The Illinois Chapters of the National Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice will hold its Criminal Justice Conference and Training Institute Oct. 9-10, 2008, at the Holiday Inn Hotel and Suites located at 3202 E. Empire St. in Bloomington, Ill. This year's conference will be hosted by the Central Illinois Area Chapter of NABCJ.

The conference theme, “Accept the Challenge, Stay the Course, Achieve the Goal,” reflects NABCJ's continued commitment to focus attention on relevant legislation, law enforcement, prosecution and defense-related needs and practices, with an emphasis on the courts, corrections and the prevention of crime. Practitioners, criminal justice students, community leaders and others are welcome to attend the event.

On-site registration will begin 7:30 a.m. each day. The registration fee is $100 in advance; $115 on-site. Session and workshop topics include: wrongful convictions, reentry initiatives, strategies for successful criminal justice careers and many more. The conference opening session begins promptly at 9 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 9, 2008, with a legislative panel on current criminal justice issues and legislation.

For more information about the conference or to schedule an interview with Pearlene Redd-Pitchford, please call 309-825-4346 or e-mail her at nabcjcia@yahoo.com.

Illinois Department of Corrections to feature large display at Illinois State Fair

	The Honor Guard will present colors on Aug. 8, opening day of the Illinois State Fair, at the IDOC tent and Aug. 17. Other performances during the fair include the K-9 Unit and Helping Paws.

SPRINGFIELD - August 6, 2008 - The Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) will be featuring a large display located near Gate 2 (Peoria Rd. and Sangamon Ave.) at the Illinois State Fairgrounds. This year's fair begins Friday, Aug. 8, and runs through Sunday, Aug. 17. 

Displays feature the Governor's Operation Spotlight Reentry Program, Sheridan National Drug Prison and Reentry Program, National Model Meth Prison and Reentry Program, Women and Family Services programs, Illinois Correctional Industries, Volunteer Services, Victim Services and Recruitment. The following performances also will take place:

HONOR GUARD:

The Honor Guard will present colors at the tent Aug. 8 and Aug. 17 at 10 a.m.

The IDOC Honor Guard is a statewide team that provides details to present colors at funerals and graveside services, groundbreakings and dedications as well as other agency events.

K-9 UNIT:               

Performances will be held throughout the fair at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., Aug. 8 – Aug. 16.

The K-9 Unit is used to assist with the operational needs of the department during routine and critical incidents.

HELPING PAWS:   

Performances will be held Aug. 9 – Aug. 10 at 10:15 a.m., 12:15 p.m. and 2:15 p.m.

The Helping Paws Program is a service dog training program where offenders train dogs for individuals who have special needs.

The IDOC State Fair Committee encourages the public and employees to stop by during their visit to the fair. 

National Association of Correctional Record Administrators and Supervisors to host First Annual National Conference Sept. 22-25 in Minnesota

“Keeping the Public Safe One Day at a Time”

SPRINGFIELD – July 15, 2008 - The National Association of Correctional Record Administrators and Supervisors (NACRAS) will host its first annual national conference Sept. 23-25, 2008, in Bloomington, Minn. The conference theme is “Keeping the Public Safe One Day at a Time.”

Planned workshops include managing a correctional record office, developing a record retention schedule, Adam Walsh Act, sex offender registry, detention and deportation, new technology, disaster recovery, sentence computation for attorneys and laws impacting sentence calculations.

Commissioner of Minnesota Department of Corrections Joan Fabian will provide remarks for the opening address Sept. 23. Secretary of North Carolina Department of Corrections Theodis Beck will serve as keynote speaker Sept. 24.

“Last year, the Illinois Department of Corrections hosted the First NACRAS Workshop in Springfield,” said IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr. “More than 130 people from 28 states attended the two-day conference in September 2007. IDOC played a significant role in creating NACRAS,” Walker added. “The association serves as a vital function in the interest of public safety. Those who perform these functions serve an important role as gatekeepers to the institutions by managing offender records and accurately calculating offender release.”

“NACRAS continues to advance the dialogue of efficiency, technology and security in the field of correction record management and sentence computation,” said IDOC Chief Records Office Supervisor Glenn Jackson, who serves as president of NACRAS. “Prior to the creation of NACRAS, there was no forum that addressed issues pertinent to the profession.”

Jackson noted that in 2009, NACRAS also will be offering a video conference training session.

In addition to Jackson, the NACRAS steering committee members from IDOC are Julie Bohler at Illinois River, Jeanne Campanella at Robinson and Stephanie Waggoner at Centralia, Margaret McDaniel and Ona Welch at Concordia Court and Deputy Chief Legal Counsel Zachery Wilson at Chicago.

Founded in 2006, NACRAS is the only organization of its kind developed specially for practitioners in the corrections record/sentence computation profession. The membership consists of individuals and organizations involved in all facets of corrections records, including adult and juvenile institutions in the U.S.

For more information about NACRAS, go to its website at www.nacras.org.

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IDOC staff and inmate work crews revisit floodwaters of 1993

Agency supports communities, provides thousands of hours of relief efforts

SPRINGFIELD – June 23, 2008 - Since mid June, Illinois Department of Corrections staff and inmate work crews have racked up nearly 18,000 hours providing flood relief protection to save farmlands and towns in Western Illinois from being swallowed by the flooding. Many of the efforts mirror the infamous Great Flood of '93, where staff and inmates battled the rising waters from sunrise to sunset by filling and throwing sandbags along the Mississippi and Illinois rivers, working diligently in Cass, Adams, Hancock, Pike, Mercer, Henderson and Calhoun counties.

IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr. and Executive Assistant to the Director Sergio Molina recently toured Indian Graves Levee in Ursa, near Quincy. Walker met with staff and inmate work crews in the area and thanked them for the vital services they are providing to local communities.

“IDOC's staff and inmates have performed an outstanding job in fighting the turbulent flooding from engulfing farm lands and towns,” said Walker. “Our goal has always been to support our communities in times of great need and work with the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) in providing emergency assistance. The department is proud to play an important role in helping provide stability and restore normalcy when nature plays havoc to communities. This system allows citizens to see inmates working and giving back to the community as well as seeing taxpayers' money at work.”

While hours pile up in combating the relentless rivers, many offenders have stated that it is a gratifying opportunity to help the communities. Even though the rivers have crested in many areas, staff and inmates continue to provide maintenance to boils in levee walls to help prevent breaks.

“Disaster relief details teach inmates invaluable lessons by raising their self-esteem as they help people whose lives have been devastated by the flood,” said Walker . “Through these relief efforts, IDOC employees also build a good rapport with communities who are grateful for our services. I have always been very proud of IDOC staff and this is just one more example. I commend our employees who are called out on a moment's notice to organize, coordinate and supervise inmate work details. Their leadership and professionalism serve as an example for all to follow.”

Nearly 280 work crews from East Moline Correctional Center, Illinois River Correctional Center, Clayton Work Camp, Pittsfield Work Camp, Greene County Work Camp, Vandalia Work Camp and Southwestern Correctional Center have been involved in the most recent work details by sandbagging levees and dealing with levee maintenance issues. Sandbag filling operations also were conducted at Robinson Correctional Center, Jacksonville Correctional Center and Pittsfield Work Camp. Inmates filled more than 300,000 sandbags that were used by surrounding communities. IDOC staff and inmate work crews provided disaster relief efforts in the following communities and drainage districts of Keithsburg, Gladstone, New Boston, Niota, Warsaw, Hunt Drainage District, Indian Graves Drainage District, Quincy, New Canton, Sny Island Levee District and Hamburg.

The agency's help is significant and appreciated throughout affected areas. Incident Commander for the Indian Graves Drainage District Toni Slater stated that if it were not for IDOC's quick response and assistance, they would have never saved the northern section of the Indian Graves Drainage District. According to the Sny Island Levee District, IDOC inmates and the Illinois National Guard completed work in eight days what it took volunteers three and a half months to complete in 1993. Director of the Cass County Emergency Services and Disaster Agency Wayne Nelson also was quoted in theJournal Courier, thanking corrections officers and the work camp crews for their efforts.

Deputy Director Ron Meek serves as IDOC's coordinator for the IEMA. Lincoln Correctional Center Warden Carolyn Trancoso and Manager of Staff Development and Training Brian Adams serve as the agency's liaisons to IEMA. Lt. John Eilers at Western Illinois Correctional Center, Lt. Jeff West at Danville Correctional Center and Sgt. Stacey McDannald at Jacksonville Correctional Center serve as IDOC field liaisons to IEMA, coordinating IDOC's resources, work crews and supervisory staff. Eilers spent much of the relief effort assigned to the Unified Area Command in Quincy, representing IDOC.

The partnership between IDOC and IEMA has been unique. For many years, Illinois was one of only several states in the country using inmates on disaster relief crews. As a result, IDOC and IEMA have helped hundreds of communities achieve successful conclusions to demanding emergency relief projects.

###

Illinois Correctional Industries to host Central Region National Correctional Industries Association Conference

BLOOMINGDALE – June 23, 2008 - Illinois Correctional Industries (ICI) will host the Central Region National Correctional Industries Association Conference June 23-25 in Bloomingdale. All states offering Correctional Industry programs have been invited to attend the conference. Several states including Ohio, Michigan and Indiana are scheduled to attend. Vendors and business partners from throughout the U.S. and Canada will also be participating.

“It is indeed an honor and a pleasure for Illinois Correctional Industries to host this year's conference,” said Illinois Department of Corrections Director Roger E. Walker Jr. “Correctional Industries plays an important role for inmates returning to society. It teaches them marketable skills, the responsibility of holding a job and increases their ability to become successful citizens. For many years, this has been a guiding goal. And, for many of these inmates, this is the first time they have been held accountable for their work performance. Today, inmates better understand what is required of them when they are released from prison.”

Goals of the conference include networking and developing relationships with colleagues, vendors and business partners, learning about new products and services as well as problem solving and developing educational skills.

Varieties of workshops will focus on the reentry of incarcerated individuals that help prepare them for release and reduce recidivism. Topics include vocational, educational and social preparation.

Other workshops will focus on the “greening” of the industries programs as well as the awareness and attention to sustaining the environment. Correctional Industries strive to ensure programs are environmentally friendly, therefore preparing the inmate labor force to gain useful employment upon release. The Menard Correctional Center will conduct a demonstration using waste vegetable oil from corrections facilities to produce bio-diesel fuel.

Other training includes the application and use of the World Wide Web in the sales and marketing of industry products as well as goal achievement and maintaining motivation in the workplace.

U.S. Congressman Danny Davis (D-Illinois) will serve as keynote speaker and discuss the “Second Chance Act,” a new federal law he sponsored, which requires states to develop reentry plans and authorizes federal funding to support such plans.  Davis is scheduled to speak on Tuesday, June 24, at 9 a.m.

IDOC to host 2nd Annual Women in Corrections-Illinois Conference

“Women are Great in 2008”

SPRINGFIELD – May 21, 2008 - The Illinois Department of Corrections will be hosting the 2nd Annual Women in Corrections-Illinois Conference on Sept. 2-4, 2008, at the Thelma Keller Convention Center, Effingham, Ill.

The Conference theme,“Women are Great in 2008,”will focus on finding success in a male-dominated profession. Conference topics will include: Changing the Face of Corrections from Dress Pants and Loafers to Dresses and Stilettos, Leadership at All Levels, Workplace Climate and Culture, Women's Health Issues, A Woman's Common Sense to Investing, and other interesting topics.

Conference attendees will include Illinois Department of Corrections employees representing Security, Education, Parole, Program Services and Administrative and Executive staff and law enforcement.

The conference will begin with the Director's Reception at Lake Sara on Tuesday evening, Sept. 2, and conclude on Thursday, Sept. 4.

Registration:Registration form

Registration is now open. Please sign up early! Space is limited. Attendees are responsible for making their own lodging reservations. The deadline to register is July 31, 2008.

The registration process consists of mailing a $60 check or money order along with a completedregistration formto:

Women in Corrections – Illinois
Attn: Registration
P.O. Box 5457
Springfield , Ill. 62705

ConferenceCenterInformation

Thelma Keller Convention Center
1202 North Keller Drive P.O. Box 747
Junction of I-70 & 57
Effingham , IL 624041 

ATTENDEES are responsible for making their own lodging reservations and payment

Hotel Information

      (Host Hotel)
Hilton Garden Inn – Effingham
1301 Avenue of Mid-America
Effingham , IL 62401
Reservations: (217) 540-7777 Fax (217) 540-7778
$87.91 (includes tax) $120.99 for suite (includes tax)

Country Inn & Suites
1200 North Raney
Effingham , IL 62401
Reservations: (888) 201-1746
Telephone: (217) 540-5555 Fax (217) 540-5556
$72.15 (includes tax) $88.80 for suite (includes tax)

Holiday Inn Express
1103 Avenue of Mid-America
Effingham , IL 62401
Reservations: (217) 540-1111 Fax (217) 347-7341
$72.15 (includes tax) $88.80 for suite (includes tax)

Contact Information:

If you have questions about the conference, please contact Tina Petty at 217-558-2200 ext. 6662 or Brigitte Smith at 217-558-2200 ext. 2002 with the Illinois Department of Corrections.

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Gov. Blagojevich announces historic reduction in repeat crimes by ex-offenders, slower rate of growth in state's prison population

New statistics show major progress from Governor's comprehensive effort to reduce recidivism

Releases Community Safety & Reentry Commission report and plan to continue work as new stats show Chicago's murder and violent crime rates on the rise

CHICAGO - May 19, 2008 - Joined by law enforcement officials, community leaders, faith-based leaders and state officials, Governor Rod R. Blagojevich today announced that statewide reforms have led to historic reductions in crimes by former offenders and significant savings for taxpayers.  An intensive effort launched by the Governor in fiscal year 2004 to provide incarcerated offenders and parolees with access to education, job training, substance abuse treatment and counseling has led to the lowest conviction rate among parolees in state history, a 23% reduction in arrests among the general parolee population, and a 40% reduction in repeat incarceration among parolees with substance abuse histories who graduated from the Sheridan Drug and Reentry Program.  The drop in recidivism has saved the State an estimated $64 million in incarceration costs since 2004.

As new statistics released late last week show that the murder rate in Chicago is up by nine percent and the violent crime rate is up by six percent for the first quarter of 2008, the Governor released a Blue Ribbon report with additional recommendations for further reducing recidivism and committed to pursuing implementation.  

“Being tough on crime means being smart about fighting crime.  The reality is that offenders who are sent to prison are most likely going to be back in our communities sooner or later.  And when they return, if they don't have the skills and support to lead clean and productive lives, they are most likely going to end up committing crimes again.  The vicious cycle of recidivism weakens communities, destroys families and puts a huge burden on the State's finances.  That's why back in 2004 we took launched an aggressive new approach to preparing offenders for reentry into their communities,” said Gov. Blagojevich.  “I am pleased to announce that we have achieved record reductions in the state's recidivism rates due to groundbreaking initiatives. But the latest crime statistics for Chicago show that violent crime is on the rise, so it's critical that we continue building on our progress and making sure we give offenders who are coming in to the prison system the tools they need to put crime behind them for good.”

When Gov. Blagojevich entered office in 2003, the state was confronted with a dangerous combination: a rising prison population, record numbers of inmates being released from prison and record recidivism rates that were primarily the result of drug- and drug-related crimes. 

Recognizing that the majority of offenders being sent to Illinois prisons in record numbers were eventually going to be returning to our communities, Gov. Blagojevich directed his administration to develop and implement the most comprehensive recidivism reduction plan in state history.  The plan had three components: 

1)      The Sheridan National Model Drug Prison & Reentry Program to address the alarming correlation between substance abuse and crime rates.  At the time of its inception, an estimated 69% of new inmates were convicted for drug-involved crimes.  The Sheridan model targets offenders with substance abuse problems and provides intensive treatment, job training, and counseling during incarceration, and substantial support during the reentry process.  Last year the State built on the success of Sheridan and opened a 200-inmate model meth treatment program at Southwestern Illinois Correctional Center . 

2)      Operation Spotlight Parole Reform Plan, which put 100 more parole agents on the streets statewide and significantly improved the scope and level of case management services for parolees to keep them on track upon reentry.  There are now eight Spotlight Reentry Center locations statewide that work with nearly 8,000 parolees annually to reduce their risk to their communities and provide case management services to those seeking ways to live crime- and drug- free and secure honest work.  In addition, the State has launched one of the largest transitional jobs programs in the nation that works to move over 800 ex-offenders annually toward employment.

3)      Community Safety & Reentry Commission created by Gov. Blagojevich to develop a statewide plan for reducing recidivism in ten target regions with high ex-offender populations. The Commission was charged with holding statewide meetings to hear the concerns and suggestions of communities with high ex-offender populations, and with researching successful state and national models.

New statistics from the Illinois Department of Corrections show that since the launch of the plan, the State has successfully rolled back recidivism rates from their record levels, reduced the rate of new crime among parolees and slowed the rate of growth of the prison population.

• Reforms have led to thelowest conviction rates for parolees in state history.  The number of new convictions for crimes among parolees has decreased by over 18% from 4,567 in FY04 to 3,742 in FY07.
  
• Total arrests among parolees experienced a 23% decline from FY04 to FY07.
  
• Participants in the Sheridan Drug Prison & Reentry program, which has been called a national model, have exhibited recidivism rates up to 40% lower than comparison groups.
  
• Despite record high admissions for lower felony class drug offenses and long-term Truth-in-Sentencing for serious offenses, the prison population has increased by only 4.5% since the end of FY02, which is the slowest rate of growth over any similar time frame since the Department of Corrections was established in FY70.
  
• Because of the reduction in repeat crimes, taxpayers have saved an estimated $64 million in prison costs since 2004.

"I want to thank the Governor for creating the Sheridan program.  I grew up in Englewood , and so I know what drugs and  crime have done to our communities.   I am the child of both a previously incarcerated mother and father, and I have seen the cycle pass onto my own son.  I was a user and abuser of cocaine for since the age of 25, have been in-and-out of prison five different times, and even after seeing my own son do time in prison, it wasn't until the Sheridan program that I decided to make a true change in my life for the better.  The Sheridan program instills hope in you, and faith in yourself that you can do better.  Today, I am a successful business owner and have started a gym to help prevent other children from making the mistakes I did.  This is personal for me.  I want to give back to my community,"  said 47-year-old Andrew Atchison, who was released from Sheridan over three years ago, the longest time he has been out of prison without reincarceration. 

“As the nation struggles with record prison populations, more people leaving prison, and high rates of recidivism, Illinois' recent progress serves as a model for reform,” said Jeremy Travis, former Director of the National Institute of Justice, President of John Jay College of Criminal Justice, and founder of the national Reentry Roundtable.  “This success comes from Governor Blagojevich's strategy of linking corrections programs with smart reentry supervision and community capacity-building.”

In addition to announcing the record recidivism reductions today, the Governor also released the “Inside Out: A Plan to Reduce Recidivism and Improve Public Safety” report compiled by the Community Safety & Reentry Commission.  The 22-member Commission was Co-Chaired by Rev. Jesse Jackson and Peoria County States Attorney Kevin Lyons. 

The Commission's Report is a blueprint for a statewide system that has four phases of implementation to ensure that the reentry process begins from the day that an offender is admitted to prison, that every day spent in prison is focused on preparing for a crime-free and drug-free reentry, that all parolees have a well-supervised and supported reentry that moves them away from drugs and crime and toward honest work and citizenship, and that community capacity is developed to sustain success.   

The Governor has already begun work to implement several of the Commission's recommendations:

• Building Community Capacity:  The report called for working with smaller, community-based organizations that work to prevent crime and reduce risk among formerly incarcerated persons.  As a result, IDOC has expanded the number of community-based contracts in its base budget by approximately $1 million, and has proposed another increase of $500,000 in FY09 budget.
  
• Statewide Job Preparation & Placement Program:  The report called for a larger focus on preparing inmates for honest employment while incarcerated and supportive services to identify employment while on parole.  As a result, the state has launched a Statewide Job Prep & Placement Program that is operated by the SAFER Foundation, and is working with community colleges to provide all inmates with job preparation in all prisons statewide, and then a referral program to SAFER offices in the community for job placement programs.
  
• A Safer Return:  The report called for implementing more model programs that build capacity in high impact communities.  A recent partnership with the MacArthur Foundation and the SAFER Foundation, called “Safer Return,” will roll out a model this summer that focuses on an entire community, rather than a population, and target intensive community-based resources to all parolees returning to East Garfield Park in Chicago, which has one of the highest numbers of parolees in the City of Chicago.
  
• Transition Units:  The report called for ensuring that all inmates move through a Transition Unit phase within the last three to six months of their sentences to ensure that they receive intensive preparation for their reentry to their communities.  IDOC is targeting the launch of a new Transition Unit program at six prisons by August, and is working on the gradual rollout of this program to all prisons statewide.

Gov. Blagojevich has appointed Dr. Byron T. Brazier, Pastor, Apostolic Church , to lead an Implementation Task Force that will advise the Governor on rolling out other report recommendations.  The Task Force will work with the Illinois Dept. of Human Services, the Illinois Dept. of Corrections and will consist of members of the Commission and the Working Group.

“This state needs systemic solutions to address the challenges of recidivism.  I am looking forward to helping lead the team to take the tremendous progress we have made in Illinois under Governor Blagojevich's leadership to the next step,” said Dr. Brazier.

The Governor also called attention to the “Second Chance Act”, a new federal law sponsored by U.S. Rep. Danny Davis, that requires states to develop reentry plans and authorizes federal funding to support such plans.  The Governor urged Congress to fully fund the new plan and support Illinois ' proven approach to reducing recidivism and strengthening public safety.

“I commend the Governor and the Illinois Department of Corrections for being a leader in recidivism reduction and for their efforts to make sure we receive full funding for the Second Chance Act of 2007,” said U.S. Rep. Danny Davis (D-Chicago), who joined the Governor today. 

Quotes from other key supporters and members of Illinois' recidivism reform initiatives:

“We understand that the day someone enters a correctional institution is the day we need to begin planning for their release.  Comprehensive assessment, prescriptive plans, and the provision of tools which prepare the individual for a productive life will decrease recidivism and increase successful community reentry.  Our strategy is holistic and includes housing, employment, family reunification, and partnering with key community organizations and faith-based institutions,” said Carol L. Adams, Ph.D., Secretary of the Illinois Department of Human Services.   

“I was very proud to have my department helping to lead this process.  Until we began to implement the Governor's plan, we were only experiencing increases in prison admissions, the prison population and recidivism rates.  As a former Sheriff, I will say that did not help improve public safety.  I strongly support the approach we have taken, and am looking forward to continuing our work to implement the Governor's report,” said IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr. 

“The State of Illinois is leading the nation in its efforts to reduce crime and recidivism.  It is not common that a state can reduce both technical violation rates, new conviction rates and arrest rates statewide.  This is the type of progress that has required tremendous leadership by Gov. Blagojevich and partnerships among both corrections and social service officials,” said Joan Petersilia, Professor Criminology, University of California, Irvine, and author of the book “When Prisoners Come Home”. 

“By engaging a broad base of state residents in this important discussion about public safety and prisoner reentry with the goal of generating specific solutions, Gov. Blagojevich espoused a powerful model for getting to the root causes of the problems communities face all over the state.  The hearings on these issues were inspiring and informative, because they gave the highest crime communities of our state a true voice in addressing the very serious impact of reentry on our families,” said Rev. Patricia Watkins of the Developing Justice Coalition, and Co-Chair of the Faith, Family & Community SubCommittee.

“Quietly and without fanfare, this administration has addressed a very important issue. With sound implementation of these recommendations, Illinois can increase public safety, save money, and rebuilt some of our most dangerous communities. Chicago Metropolis 2020, representing the business and civic interests of the region, is committed to these common sense policies,” said Paula Wolff, Executive Director of Chicago Metropolis 2020.

“This statewide initiative that was fostered by Governor Blagojevich, IDOC, and IDHS will have a lasting effect on the community's safety, and has birthed new beginnings for the formerly incarcerated, and their families for today and the future.  This has placed Illinois in the forefront in regards to prison reentry, and on behalf of myself and the many others who have benefited from the programs that have come out of this initiative, I say Thank You for your vision, and tackling these issues head on and with resolve,” said Rev. Leroy Smith Jr., Executive Director of Jesus Cares Outreach, Inc.

“Any reduction in criminal behavior or activity is progress for law enforcement and our communities.   The police must be tough on crime, but the likelihood of ex-offenders committing crimes after rehabilitation is far less when programs sponsored by the Governor's Office are available to support parolees, their families and their futures,” said Chicago Police Superintendent Jody P. Weis.

“I have been working in the community on this issue and this is the first administration that has made a difference.  This is the kind of progress that we need to keep up the fight,” said Linda Martin, Executive Director of R.I.T.A.S. Ministry.

“Reentry and recidivism is the number one new trend affecting the nation's crime rate. We looked across the nation for model programs to recommend governors for their states, and the Illinois initiative was at the top of our list. It will make communities safer and save taxpayer dollars,” said Jim Kessler, Vice President for Policy at the Washington think tank Third Way and co-author of “The Impending Crime Wave: Four Dangerous New Trends and How to Stop Them.

“Ultimately, this is an issue about public safety and communities.  We have made tremendous progress in driving down recidivism rates among our parole population in recent years, largely due to the fact that the Governor provided early, greatly needed resources to invest in several of the report recommendations that are helping us to achieve a stronger balance between strengthening supervision and strengthening community capacity,” said Illinois Department of Corrections Assistant Director Deanne Benos.  “We are looking forward to implementation of more of the recommendations.” 

IDOC celebrates the first anniversary of the Moms and Babies Program at DecaturCorrectional Center

	The Moms and Babies Program allows qualified mothers to keep their newborn babies with them to help strengthen the special bond that is critical to a healthy mother and child relationship.The program currently can accommodate five mothers and their babies.

Program helps strengthen family structure and enhance successful reentry back to the community

DECATUR – May 19, 2008 - The Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) Women and Family Services Division today hosted a special ceremony to mark the first anniversary of the Moms and Babies Program at the Decatur Correctional Center. Since the program's inception in 2007, two mothers and their babies have completed the program and returned home. Currently, there are five moms and their children in the program, including one mother who gave birth to a baby girl just five days ago.

The Moms and Babies Program allows qualified mothers to keep their newborn babies with them to help support the incarcerated mother in developing and nurturing a bond with her infant through effective programming along with a safe and supportive living environment.

IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr. praised the dedication and support for the new program, quoting Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who once said, “Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase.”

“It is truly inspirational to know that so many people have committed themselves to ensuring the program's success,” Director Walker continued. “The Department of Children and Family Services, the Department of Human Services, as well as other community organizations, have provided meaningful services for this new program. We also appreciate the support of all the center's employees, who have embraced the philosophy of the Moms and Babies Program.”

The Moms and Babies Program is a pilot program that can currently accommodate five mothers and their babies, with a long-range goal of housing up to 20 mothers and babies. The Moms and Babies Program continues to be in the forefront of gender-responsive programming by providing opportunity for the incarcerated mother and her newborn to bond in a setting that nurtures physical and emotional health. Such programming helps to reduce recidivism and the chances of children someday continuing the cycle of incarceration.

“The Moms and Babies Program provides a holistic approach for the female offender and her newborn and the opportunity for the offender to increase her personal and parental growth and development,” said Deputy Director Debbie Denning of Women and Family Services. “This program is designed to emulate the dynamics consistent with an indigent, single, expecting mother in the community while ensuring proper protocol is followed for a correctional environment.”

Selected candidates with a release date projected to be within about 24 months of their delivery date are screened for the program. After delivery, t he incarcerated mothers and their babies have their own room in the correctional facility to accommodate the needs of the mother and baby. The program also has a specially designed Infant Development Center to provide daycare for infants while their incarcerated mothers attend programming classes and report for job assignments within the prison.

According to a May 2004 study by the National Resource Center for Foster Care and Permanency Planning at the Hunter College School of Social Work, early attachment patterns are predictive of social behaviors. Keeping incarcerated mothers and their babies together can work preemptively against future psychosocial problems for the child and their associated burdens on the state. It can also motivate the mothers to better themselves, both in prison and in their lives beyond it.

The Women and Family Services Division promotes a variety of other programs and services to strengthen and reinforce the bonding between mothers and their children. Children and families play an important role in the management of offenders in custodial settings. All facilities within the Women and Family Services Division offer parenting programs. At the Decatur , Dwight, Lincoln and Fox Valley facilities, family activities range from day camps, video visiting, storybook and summer read programs as well as holiday activities for mothers and children.

Individuals or groups interested in supporting the program can contact the Women and Family Services Division at Decatur Correctional Center at (217) 877-0353, ext. 300.

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	The Honor Guard pays tribute to the agency's fallen heroes, those who paid the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. The May 6 ceremony was a day of honor, recognition and remembrance.
	Correctional Officer Sisawat Singmuongthong of Sheridan Correctional Center was named IDOC Correctional Officer of the Year for the Adult Division. Featured are Deputy Chief of Staff for Public Safety Jennifer Ricker (left), Chief of Operations Rick Bard, Director Roger E. Walker Jr., Sheridan Warden Michael Rothwell, C.O. Sisawat Singmuongthong and Community Corrections Deputy Director Barbara Hurt.
	Correctional Officer Lynn Hodge of Dwight Correctional Center was named IDOC Correctional Officer of the Year for the Women & Family Services Division. Featured are Dwight Warden Mary Sigler (left), Deputy Chief of Staff for Public Safety Jennifer Ricker, C.O. Lynn Hodge, Director Roger E. Walker Jr. and W&FS Deputy Director Debbie Denning.
	Correctional Residence Counselor I Jonathan Stewart of Southern Illinois Adult Transition Center was named overall winner of IDOC ATC front line staff. Featured are Deputy Chief of Staff for Public Safety Jennifer Ricker (left), Southern Illinois ATC Supervisor Yolanda Harrington, Community Corrections Deputy Director Barbara Hurt, Director Roger E. Walker Jr. and CRCI Jonathan Stewart.
	Parole Agent James Stiers of the Sex Offender Supervision Unit, District 2, was named IDOC Parole Agent of the Year for the Parole Division. Featured are Deputy Director of Parole Operations and Security Jason Garnett (left), Deputy Chief of Staff for Public Safety Jennifer Ricker, Director Roger E. Walker Jr. and Chief of Parole Jesse Montgomery.
	Youth Supervisor II Dario Gonzalez of Illinois Youth Center-Joliet was named IDJJ Youth Supervisor of the Year. Featured are IYC-Joliet Superintendent John Rita (left), Deputy Chief of Staff for Public Safety Jennifer Ricker, Supervisor of Programs Janice Shallcross, Director Kurt Friedenauer, YS II Dario Gonzalez and Supervisor of Operations Ron Smith.

Illinois Department of Corrections and Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice recognize Correctional Officers of the Year for 2008

Five front line employees awarded top honors

SPRINGFIELD - May 6, 2008 - Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) Director Roger E. Walker Jr. and Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice (IDJJ) Acting Director Kurt Friedenauer today honored five outstanding front line employees as 2008 Correctional Officers of the Year at a ceremony in Springfield.

The winners were chosen from a field of 51 nominees, who were nominated for the award by their colleagues. The overall winners were chosen by the departments' executive staff.

Director Walker and Acting Director Friedenauer commended the efforts of front line staff within their respective agencies.

“In recognizing excellence during Correctional Officers’ Week, and in recognizing correctional workers, your contributions extend well beyond prison walls,” Walker said.  “Many of you are leaders in your communities and many of you have served our country.  You bring distinction to the job each and every day and we thank you for that. Through this steadfast support, IDOC continues to meet the challenges in operating one of the safest, largest prison systems in the nation.” 

“The Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice is committed to providing treatment and educational, vocational, social and emotional services to the state's young offenders to assist them in becoming responsible adults,” said Friedenauer. “The employees being recognized today are commended for their commitment and support in this goal.”

Nominations for this year's award recognize front-line staff at each of the state's 28 prisons, eight juvenile centers, eight adult transition centers and five parole districts. This year's top five front line employees were presented with recognition letters from the governor and IDOC and IDJJ directors and a $500 check from the Employee Benefit Fund. The nominees are judged on leadership, initiative, professionalism and service to their community and career.

Employees receiving top honors during a ceremony at IDOC and IDJJ General Headquarters in Springfield are:

Correctional Officer Sisawat Singmuongthong of Sheridan Correctional Center

Correctional Officer Singmuongthong is a primary training instructor for Sheridan, delivering all aspects of cycle and firearms training.  He serves on the Tactical Response Team and has served in statewide tactical functions, transporting high-level inmates through the state and responding to tactical callouts.

Correctional Officer Lynn Hodge of Dwight Correctional Center

Correctional Officer Hodge continually shows her leadership skills, vast knowledge and versatility, allowing her to be assigned to any position and completing any task that is asked of her.  She volunteers ways to improve methods, techniques and daily operations. She has established an outstanding, dependable and solid work ethic and has gained respect from her fellow peers. 

CRCI Jonathan Stewart of Southern Illinois Adult Transition Center 

Correctional Residence Counselor I Stewart maintains an exemplary work record and has not used any sick time in more than 12 years. He has a professional rapport with staff and inmates and his appearance is neat and professional. His constant steady demeanor maintains the highest standards.

Parole Agent James Stiers of the Sex Offender Supervision Unit, District 2

Agent Stiers sets high standards for himself and sets a good example as a manager.  He is self-motivated in his every day-to-day operation. He has coordinated the establishment of a sex offender treatment group in LaSalle County where none has previously existed.  This alone has assisted parolees who live in that area and the U.S. Probation Department to allow their probationers to use the services of the offender therapist.

Youth Supervisor II Dario Gonzalez of Illinois Youth Center-Joliet

YSII Gonzalez began his career at IYC-Joliet in 1996 and has worked several posts as a YSII including the WRIT Team, institutional screening, assignment supervisor, fire safety officer, intel/investigator, drug & alcohol testing, S.C.B.A./respirator maintenance, toxic substance abuse coordinator and Spanish speaking/reading interpreter.  His attendance is excellent and he wears his IDJJ uniform with pride and dignity.  He is a team player and leads by example. Counseling staff describe him as instrumental in assisting youth who are hesitant to listen to reason, in making common sense decisions regarding their future plans.     

Other facility nominees include:

Nominee list for 2008

Adult Correctional Centers

Adult Transition Centers

Women and Family Services

Illinois Youth Centers

Parole

EDITOR'S NOTE:Contact Derek Schnapp at 217-558-0518 or Januari Smith at 217-558-1544 for interview requests.

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	Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs Director and SECA Honorary Chairperson Tammy Duckworth presents IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr. with the highest award, the Capitol Cup, which is given to an agency for the most staff participation and exceptional giving. IDOC has received the Capitol Cup for the seventh consecutive year.

IDOC raises nearly $341,000 for 2007 SECA Campaign, wins top honors for seventh consecutive year

SPRINGFIELD – April 17, 2008 - The Illinois Department of Corrections won top honors in the 2007 State Employees Combined Appeal (SECA) Campaign at the SECA Awards Reception held April 17 at the Executive Mansion in Springfield. IDOC received the highest award, the Capitol Cup, for the seventh consecutive year. The award is given to an agency for the most staff participation and exceptional giving. IDOC also was recognized with an Outstanding Achievement Award.

During the 2007 campaign, IDOC raised nearly $341,000. Staff from correctional centers, work camps, boot camps, adult transition centers, parole offices, General Headquarters and Correctional Industries contributed to one or more charities that provide health and human services to thousands of people in Illinois.

For the third year in a row, State of Illinois employees donated more than $3 million to charities. The 2007 contributions increased by $148,670 from last year. The SECA Campaign is a once-a-year fundraising drive that allows state and university employees to contribute to participating charities through either payroll deductions or a one-time donation. Through the campaign, employees direct their contributions to up to 11 member charities, which in turn represent more than 2,200 charitable organizations.

Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs Director Tammy Duckworth served as the 2007 SECA honorary chair and has agreed to serve as the honorary chair for the 2008 SECA Campaign. In reaching the goal of $3 million to meet important social service needs in 2007, SECA achieved a significant milestone of raising more than $56 million since its inception in 1983.

“Today we join together to recognize the remarkable showing of kindness and generosity from our state employees. Their contributions will have a great impact on hundreds of thousands of lives and the environment,” said Duckworth.

“Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm,” said IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr. “The agency's employees are always enthusiastic about stepping up to the plate and giving to such a noble cause. Time and time again, I have said that I am extremely proud of the department's employees. Their dedication and longstanding history of kindness and goodwill are truly inspirational in demonstrating that we will and can make a difference in the lives of others.”

In demonstrating the importance of giving, Walker quoted Calvin Coolidge, who once said, “No person was ever honored for what he received. Honor has been the reward for what he gave.”

“Receiving the Capitol Cup, especially for the seventh consecutive year, is indeed an honor,” said Walker. “As director of IDOC and on behalf of all those who gave, this award is sincerely appreciated and will be proudly displayed as a reminder of our tradition of joining together and reaching out to help thousands of people in Illinois.”

For more information about SECA and its member charities, log on to the SECA web site atwww.secaillinois.org.

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	Featured are Deputy Director of Women and Family Services Debbie Denning, Dwight Correctional Center Warden Mary Sigler, IDOC Volunteer of the Year Becky Funk, IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr. and IDOC Chief of Community Outreach Shelith Hansbro.

Illinois Department of Corrections, Illinois Department ofJuvenile Justice name 2008 Volunteers of the Year

“Volunteers are not paid not because they are worthless, but because they are priceless”

SPRINGFIELD - April 16, 2008 - The Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) and the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice (IDJJ) announced the recipients of the 2008 Volunteer of the Year awards at a recognition ceremony held today in Springfield. Becky Funk ­­­­­at Dwight Correctional Center was named IDOC 2008 Volunteer of the Year and Deb Sundberg at Illinois Youth Center-Kewanee was named as the 2008 Volunteer of the Year for IDJJ. ­­­Funk and Sundberg were among volunteers of the state's 28 adult correctional centers, eight adult transition centers and eight youth facilities who were being honored for their outstanding leadership and efforts in providing positive change in the lives of inmates and youths.

	Featured are IDOC Chief of Community Outreach Shelith Hansbro, IDJJ Acting Director Kurt Friedenauer, IDJJ Volunteer of the Year Deb Sundberg, IDJJ Superintendent of IYC-Kewanee Lisa Nordstrom , IDJJ Acting Supervisor of Programs Janice Shallcross and IDJJ Acting Supervisor of Operations Ron Smith.

“This year's theme, ‘Volunteers are not paid not because they are worthless, but because they are priceless,' is quite fitting for the world we live in today,” IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr. said. “In the past several years, our nation has rediscovered that reaching out to help others is essential to our well-being. These acts of kindness, no matter how great or small, are priceless to those who give and to those who receive.”

In his remarks, Walker quoted Booker T. Washington, “If you want to lift yourself up, lift up someone else.”

“In times of need, whether at a national or community level, or in our prison system, we see examples of volunteers who come from near and far to do just that--to lift people up,” Walker said. “I am very proud of our employees and volunteers alike. Together, we stand strong as one family and move the department forward by providing positive change in the lives of inmates.”

"Volunteers play a vital role in mentoring incarcerated youth," said IDJJ Acting Director Kurt Friedenauer.  "Through their volunteer efforts, they provide positive guidance in helping youths gain valuable life skills that in turn help them become productive citizens when they return to their family and community.  Their teachings and words of encouragement are priceless in shaping the future of our youths.”

Becky Funk

Becky Funk was instrumental in the initiation of chapel services for the female offenders in the intake unit at Dwight Correctional Center. She helped supply additional volunteers and acquired a portable sound system for the service. Her hands-on ministry at intake consists of distributing Bibles and religious materials and praying door-to-door with the female offenders. She also conducts one-on-one ministry with a Bible-based program called “Time to Heal,” which helps women who have trouble opening up in a group setting. She brings a message of hope and healing to these offenders. In addition, she assists with the Crop Hunger Walk, which supports world hunger, and conducts special activities for the offenders in the Mental Health Unit, such as cookie decorating and holiday activities. She also has helped acquire donations for the annual Christmas musical program. In addition, she has been the liaison for the recent chapel remodeling project. Through her efforts, the chapel at Dwight Correctional Center is receiving much needed repairs and cosmetic restoration. Funk has a joyful character, which is so infectious that she causes a room, and all of those in the room, to light up with joy.

Deb Sundberg

Deb Sundberg has logged in more than 330 hours at IYC-Kewanee and works primarily with students who are non-readers or emergent readers. She works with students who are also working toward their GED and who need assistance with their comprehension skills. According to their teachers, the students with whom Sundberg has been working with have improved dramatically. Sundberg's patience, caring and respectful attitude toward her students is evident. If a student refuses to attend a tutoring session with her, she meets with them to find out why and has rearranged her schedule to help accommodate the student's needs. From a testing perspective, the overall youth Terra Nova scores have seen great improvement. Teachers at the center agree she is a definite asset to the Educational Program. Sundberg has generously donated books that are received through her efforts with the Literary Volunteers of America, which has been an asset to the youth library. As one student noted, “She has helped me a lot and I now make the honor and high honor rolls.”

More than 5,000 volunteers provide programs and services that otherwise would not be available to the incarcerated men, women and youth located within the IDOC and IDJJ. During the past year, volunteers have donated more than $2 million in time and goods to the incarcerated.

At IDOC and IDJJ, volunteers assist in various ways ranging from mentoring and meeting the religious needs of inmates to offering alcohol and drug rehabilitation such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous. Volunteers tutor, hold church services and Bible studies as well as parenting, art, music, poetry and literacy classes.

IDOC operates 28 adult correctional centers, eight adult transition centers as well as various work camps and boot camps. The agency is responsible for managing more than 80,000 inmates and parolees.

IDJJ operates eight youth centers and oversees 1,300 incarcerated juveniles. By creating IDJJ in July 2006, young offenders receive individualized services including educational, vocational, social and emotional services that will help enable them to become productive adults. In addition to the services provided inside juvenile facilities, the new department also provides transitional and post-release treatment programs for juveniles, including counseling, mental health and substance abuse services.

If you are interested in the Volunteer Services Program at IDOC, contact Marcy Morris, volunteer services manager, at 217-558-2200 ext. 6101.

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	IDOC work crews in southern Illinois worked diligently filling thousands of sandbags to help save hardest hit areas from recent flooding.

IDOC staff and inmate work crews provide cleanup following months of ice storms, flooding throughout Illinois

SPRINGFIELD – April 14, 2008 - During the last four months, the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) staff and inmate work crews logged in 6,000 hours helping cleanup Illinois communities following severe ice storms and flooding.

“I commend the leadership and professionalism of IDOC employees who report on a moment's notice to organize, coordinate and supervise work details when disaster hits communities,” said IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr. “IDOC is well represented by these employees who display pride and professionalism in supporting communities during natural disasters. When the agency is called upon to provide service, the state can be assured that we will be there.”

Deputy Director Ron Meek serves as IDOC's coordinator for the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA). Lincoln Correctional Center Warden Carolyn Trancoso and Manager of Staff Development and Training Brian Adams serve as the agency's liaisons to IEMA. Lt. John Eilers at Western Illinois Correctional Center, Lt. Jeff West at Danville Correctional Center and Sgt. Stacey McDannald at Jacksonville Correctional Center serve as IDOC field liaisons to IEMA, coordinating IDOC's resources, work crews and supervisory staff with members of the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) and local officials.

“IDOC staff and inmates worked side-by-side with other government agencies and civilians in providing disaster relief,” said Adams. “The work crews served in the cleanup project for nearly four months bringing relief to communities throughout the state.”

The cleanup projects include an ice storm in December 2007 that swept western Illinois , affecting Morgan, Scott and Pike counties. From Dec. 12, 2007, through Jan. 31, 2008, IDOC provided staff and inmate labor from Jacksonville Correctional Center and Greene County, Clayton and Pittsfield work camps for debris removal in the communities of Jacksonville, Lynnville, Pittsfield, Bluffs, Griggsville, Winchester, Chapin, Meredosia and Concord.

“Debris cleanup took about six weeks to complete,” said Adams. “However, according to members of IEMA, IDOT and numerous local officials in the affected areas, it would have taken several months and thousands of additional dollars to complete without the assistance of IDOC work crews.”

The northern portion of the state in Livingston County and Pontiac also experienced heavy rains on top of already excessive snow melt that caused near record flooding of the Vermillion River . From Jan. 16 through Jan. 26, IDOC provided work crews from Lincoln and Sheridan correctional centers to assist in the flood relief. In just under two weeks, the agency's work crews completed cleanup of numerous city parks, streets and public areas and removed flood damaged items from homes that were hardest hit by the flood. Local officials and residents praised the agency's staff and inmate work crews for their timeliness in completing the job. Community leaders and members also thanked IDOC for the time and money it saved their communities during the disaster.

In late February, a second ice storm swept the state's southern region, causing large scale problems from debris covered streets and property to wide spread power outages. On Feb. 25, IDOC once again was called upon by IEMA. IDOC work crews reported to Johnson, Saline, Massac, Union and Williamson counties in the communities of Metropolis, Goreville, Stone Fort, Anna, Cobden, Carrier Mills, Harrisburg, Jonesboro, Creal Springs, Lake of Egypt, New Burnside, and Mountain Township. Tamms Correctional Center provided staff and inmate work crews for the project. The cleanup effort continued through mid March when heavy rains began to cause severe flooding in the same region and eventually spread to several more counties, including Gallatin, Pope, Hardin, Alexander, Jackson and Pulaski. IDOC crews responded to these locations with a massive sandbagging effort. IDOC sandbagging operations were set up in Murphysboro, Karnack, Golconda, Old Shawnee Town, Equality, Olive Branch and Elkville.

“The Tamms Work Camp began a large scale sandbagging effort that allowed inmates to continue filling sand bags into the night,” said Adams. “Thousands of bags were filled and loaded onto IDOT trucks and local vehicles to be sent to locations that were being hit hardest by the rising rivers and weakest levees.”

Sandbagging efforts ended March 26, Adams said. On many occasions, community residents expressed their appreciation for IDOC's assistance in saving their homes and property. Tracy Jones, a local official from Equality Illinois stated, “This is our third major flood in Equality and the Department of Corrections has saved our town three times now.”

Throughout IDOC, there are many opportunities for offenders to give back to communities. Details of these programs teach them invaluable lessons while increasing their self-esteem as they help people.

“The Governor and I are committed to enhancing the successful reentry of offenders into society through rehabilitative programs and services,” said Walker. “Reaching out and helping those in communities that have helped and assisted them in many ways, offers countless rewards to everyone involved. Such programs not only benefit our communities and help offenders return to society, but also serve as a valuable asset to the taxpayer.”

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	IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr. and Chief of Community Outreach and Special Assistant to the Director Shelith Hansbro were among those who thanked the SECA ambassadors and employees for their efforts and generosity in making the 2007 SECA Campaign a success.

Appreciation banquet held for 2007 SECA ambassadors of IDOC and IDJJ

SPRINGFIELD – March 4, 2008 – An appreciation banquet was held Feb. 28 for State and University Employees Combined Appeal (SECA) ambassadors of the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) and the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice (IDJJ).

IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr. and IDJJ Acting Director Kurt Friedenauer commended the SECA ambassadors for their diligent efforts in making the 2007 SECA Campaign a success by educating fellow employees about the gift of giving.

“Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm and our ambassadors are very enthusiastic,” Walker said.

In his remarks, Walker talked about the importance of helping others.

“My friends, there is no exercise better for the heart than reaching down and lifting people up,” Walker said. “If you want happiness for an hour, take a nap. If you want happiness for a day, go fishing. If you want happiness for a year, inherit a fortune. But, if you want happiness for a lifetime, help somebody. Our participation in SECA does exactly that; we help people in need and lift them up.”

For the past 25 years, SECA has made great steps by raising nearly $54 million dollars and helping millions of Illinois citizens through the generous contributions of state and university employees.

Over the years, IDOC employees have given whole-heartedly to SECA. Because of this generosity, IDOC has received the Capitol Cup for the last six years, which is the highest award for exceptional giving.

“The employees of IDOC and our SECA ambassadors are role models. They have showed us how important it is to build on the tradition of kindness and the willingness to help make a difference. We appreciate all of your efforts in making our communities a better place to live,” Walker said.

Honorary guests included Director of Veteran's Affairs Tammy Duckworth, who serves as honorary chair of the 2007 SECA campaign.

Chief of Community Outreach and Special Assistant to the Director Shelith Hansbro served as mistress of ceremony for the event. Others providing award presentations and remarks were Chief of Operations Rick Bard, Acting Chief of Parole Jesse Montgomery, Deputy Director of Community Corrections Barbara Hurt, Acting Deputy Director of District II Ed McNeil, Pontiac Correctional Center Warden Eddie Jones and IDJJ Acting Deputy Director of Operations Ron Smith and IDJJ Acting Deputy Director of Program Services Janice Shallcross.

SECA board members are Brigitte Smith, Marcy Morris and Cherri Gass.

For more information about SECA and its member charities, log on to the SECA web site atwww.secaillinois.org.

Illinois Correctional Employees Memorial Association (ICEMA)
Scholarship Program Application available on ICEMA website

Application deadline is March 15, 2008

SPRINGFIELD - Feb. 6, 2008 - The Illinois Correctional Employees Memorial Association (ICEMA) will be awarding scholarships to members of ICEMA and their children seeking to pursue secondary and higher education during the upcoming academic year. The expansion of the scholarship program to qualifying members is new this year and the committee is excited to see how many applications will be received.

Applications are now available at ICEMA's new Internet site atwww.icema.us. Interested applicants should fill out the application and return all documentation to ICEMA Scholarship Committee, P.O. Box 5417, Springfield, Illinois 62705-5417 on or beforeMarch 15, 2008.

Applicants must be permanent Illinois residents and an ICEMA member in good standing or the family member of an ICEMA member.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: ICEMA scholarship funds are intended to assist students with the cost of tuition and fees. No funds can be used for housing or any other incurred expenses. Funds must be used during the regular school year and cannot be used for summer courses. If tuition is paid in full by any other scholarship, grant or other financial aid, the ICEMA scholarship cannot be used.

	IDOC executive staff on Dec. 13 met with a Romanian delegation hosted by Berean Ministry to discuss and compare prison operations, programs and services.

Romanian delegation meets with IDOC officials

SPRINGFIELD - Dec. 13, 2007 - A Romanian delegation, hosted by Berean Prison Ministry, met with Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) executive staff at the agency's General Headquarters in Springfield on Dec. 13. The visit was part of IDOC's chaplaincy program.

IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr. and executive staff discussed and compared prison operations, programming and services with the Romanian delegation. Romania operates 32 prisons with an inmate population of 32,000 and a $300 million budget. IDOC operates 28 prisons and 8 adult transition centers with an inmate population of 45,500 and a $1.24 billion budget.

In addition to Director Walker, IDOC officials included Chief of Community Outreach / Special Assistant to Director Shelith Hansbro, Chief of Staff Jim Reinhart, Chief of Operations Rick Bard, Southern Region Security Director Randy Grounds, Chief of Labor Relations Stephanie Shallenberger, Deputy Director of Programs and Support Services Roberta Fews, Deputy Director of District 2 Ed McNeil and Volunteer Services Manager Marcy Morris.

During their visit to Illinois, the Romanian delegation also toured Lincoln and Logan Correctional Centers.

Berean Prison Ministry has hosted three delegations this fall, two from Russia and one from Romania . The ministry provides translated Bibles and religious programming for inmates in both those countries. In the U.S., Berean Prison Ministry provides 2,000 Bibles a month to inmates.

“We are always pleased to have the opportunity to meet with prison officials from near and far to exchange information and gain invaluable knowledge,” said Walker. “We also appreciate the religious support Berean Prison Ministry has provided IDOC inmates over the years.”

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IllinoisCorrectional Industries recycling program wins beautification award 

Program fosters community partnerships, assists in inmate rehabilitation

SPRINGFIELD – Dec. 10, 2007 – The Illinois Correctional Industries (ICI) community-based recycling program recently was announced as an inaugural winner of the “Beautify Southern Illinois Awards.” The award was given based on individuals and groups who have gone above the call of duty in beautifying the region.

ICI, through its Menard Waste Removal and Recycling Program, has fostered a significant partnership with state agencies, municipalities, county government and not-for-profit organizations who are working toward a common goal of providing recycling services to local residents. The modest in-house recycling effort that was implemented four years ago has grown into a successful community-based program of high public appeal.

In addition to the Illinois Department of Corrections, three other state agencies--the Departments of Human Services, Natural Resources and Historic Preservation--participate in the program. All are customers of the waste removal service in which recyclable materials are removed from their waste streams as part of the collection process.

Currently six local communities also are participating in the ICI program. The latest community partner to join in these efforts is the Village of Prairie Du Rocher . In each of these communities, drop-off recycling containers were designed and manufactured through a cooperative agreement with the Randolph County solid waste coordinator and ICI. The containers were placed in participating communities. As they become full, city employees or volunteers transport the containers to the ICI Menard Recycling Depot for processing by offenders.

The Randolph County solid waste management coordinator also enlisted area not-for-profit organizations, such as the local Boy Scouts and Chester Memorial Hospital , who bring recyclable materials to the ICI Recycling Depot at Menard Correctional Center for processing.

Since 2003, more than 4,000 tons of recyclable and reusable materials--including paper, cardboard, plastics, glass, metal cans and barrels--have been diverted from Illinois landfills and processed for sale.

Earnings generated by the sales of recovered recyclable materials, combined with the more than $20 per ton saved in landfill costs and fees, have provided a consistent and sustainable revenue stream that has helped maintain the program's viability.

The vocational aspect of ICI's mission is a strong component of the recycling program. Offenders in the program receive a wide range of training from working with specialized processing equipment to learning how to sort various kinds of materials to bring the highest market prices when sold. The program provides offenders with marketable job skills in a fast growing industry that will assist them upon release and help them transition back into society.

“The Illinois Department of Corrections is pleased to be an integral part of this program,” said IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr. “The program's success also demonstrates the importance of rehabilitation for inmates and their return journey to society as useful members of the community. A component of successful reentry management is the developing and operating of programs that will improve an inmate's ability to find meaningful employment upon release. ICI programs offer inmates the opportunity to develop useable skills and positive work habits. Ultimately, these benefits contribute to both rehabilitation and reducing recidivism. Through ICI programs, inmates are able to build their self-esteem and become positive members of society upon release.”

“ICI's recycling program has formed a strong partnership with the Randolph County Solid Waste Management Committee and other local partners,” said ICI Chief Executive Officer Jim Underwood. “This relationship has fostered a program, and more importantly, a sensibility that reaches all the way to the main streets of area communities. The goal of ICI is to continue to reach out to state and local governmental entities, not-for-profits and other organizations throughout the area in a cooperative effort to identify and increase recycling opportunities in the region.”

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	Nina Weston and IDOC representative Kerry Camp of the Shawnee Correctional Center met in front of the newly unveiled memorial honoring DynCorp CIVPOL officers who have been killed in the line of duty.  Ms. Weston's husband Gary, a retired IDOC auditor, as well as Kim Bigley, former Warden at Shawnee, were among 47 individuals honored on Oct. 19 for sacrificing their lives supporting U.S. objectives.

IDOC pays respect to former employees killed in Kosovo

Retired IDOC auditor and former warden among 47 honored

SPRINGFIELD - Nov. 8, 2007 - The Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC), represented by long-time Shawnee Correctional Center Administrative Assistant Kerry Camp, paid its respects at an Oct. 19 memorial service near Washington D.C. honoring 47 DynCorp International support personnel who have died in the line of duty while supporting U.S. objectives overseas. 

In a CIVPOL memorial wall ceremony held at DynCorp International's corporate headquarters in Falls Church, Va., dozens of surviving family members and spouses, current and former CIVPOL employees, government officials, DynCorp executives and other invited guests joined together for the unveiling of the memorial by DynCorp CEO Herb Lanese.

Among those honored were Gary Weston, an auditor with the IDOC who retired in 2002, and Kim Bigley, former Shawnee Correctional Center warden.

Weston and Bigley both died following a shooting attack that occurred on April 17, 2004, at a Kosovo prison where the two were serving as CIVPOL officers in support of a United Nations Mission.  A third individual, Lynn Williams of New York, was also killed in the incident. 

“It was an honor to represent Director Walker and the agency to pay tribute to the ultimate sacrifice made by Mr. Weston and Ms. Bigley,” Camp said.  “I had the privilege of working closely with both of them while in the IDOC, and they always represented the department in fine fashion.  We still miss them dearly.”

“On behalf of all staff, I want to thank Mr. Camp for attending the service and sharing his experiences with us.  He was uniquely suited to represent us at the memorial in honoring the brave and honorable service of Mr. Weston and Ms. Bigley as well as the other victims who gave their lives in pursuit of liberty and justice for all,” said Director Roger E. Walker Jr.  

Weston began his career with the IDOC in 1972.  Bigley joined IDOC in 1984. 

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	Director Roger E. Walker Jr. presents the first place trophy to the East Moline Correctional Center team. Featured from left are Lieutenants Eric Thompson and Joe Arnold, Director Walker and Correctional Officers Gary West and Chad Karenke.

Director's Combined Weapons Match attracts 16 teams throughout the state

East Moline Correctional Centerteam wins first place

SPRINGFIELD - Nov. 2, 2007 - The Annual Director's Combined Weapons Match was held Oct. 26 at the Illinois State Police Firing Range and Training Facility in Pawnee. Despite rainy conditions, 16 institutional teams participated in the match throughout the day with East Moline Correctional Center taking first place.

"IDOC is proud of the skills and teamwork of its employees," said Director Roger E. Walker Jr. "I'd like to congratulate and thank all of the participants who helped make this year's match a success."

Until 2006, East Moline had taken first place for 11 consecutive times. In 2006, Hill Correctional Center won first and East Moline placed second. This year, the East Moline Correctional Center pistol team won the team competition with a score of 4149 - 116x out of a possible 4320 – 312x. Western Illinois Correctional Center took second place with a score of 4108 – 91x and Tamms Correctional Center placed 3rd with a score of 4092 – 76x.

Director Walker presented the first place trophy to East Moline Correctional Center team members Lieutenants Eric Thompson and Joe Arnold and Correctional Officers Chad Karenke and Gary West. Director Walker also presented the Top Shooter Award to individual match winner Lt. Joe Arnold, who had a score of 1062 - 36x out of a possible 1080 – 78x. The director presented the Second Place Award to Correctional Officer Karenke, who had a score of 1056 – 32x.

Lt. Cecil Polley, special operations commander and a coordinator of the competition, pointed out that the efforts of many employees contributed to the success of the event.

“Special thanks go out to the Illinois State Police for the use of their fine facility,” Lt. Polley said.

Lt. Polley also thanked the following for their efforts: Correctional Industries for providing new food items and shooting towels for participants; Marcy Morris of Volunteer Services for its generous donation of chips, water and candy; Taylorville Correctional Center Warden Sims for making available Dietary Manager Beth Little and Food Supervisor Kirk Lentz; Michelle Hunt, Missy Huber and Lori Killam of General Headquarters for their help in registration and totaling scores; and the Special Operations staff, who ran the range and scored targets all day in the rain.

“The match was well received despite the weather and the changed courses of fire,” Lt. Polley added.

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Illinois Department of Corrections to conduct Operation Safe Spirits

Agency to increase monitoring of paroled sex offenders on Halloween

SPRINGFIELD - Oct. 26, 2007 - For the third consecutive year, the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) will increase surveillance of paroled sex offenders on the days leading up to and on Halloween. Operation Safe Spirits works with local law enforcement throughout the state to keep a closer eye on paroled sex offenders during this time when more kids are out in the evenings going door-to-door to trick-or-treat.

“There will be thousands of children participating in Halloween activities in the coming days in Illinois . We want to make sure your kids are safe to trick-or-treat in their neighborhoods,” said IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr. “This operation is another strong example of IDOC's dedication and collaboration with law enforcement in addressing public safety.”

On the days leading up to and on Halloween, IDOC will be conducting face-to-face contacts and spot checks with the state's 1,100 paroled sex offenders. Paroled sex offenders are on electronic or GPS (Global Positioning System) monitoring and have been served with requirements of their parole. Conditions include that they do not go outside on Halloween, dress in costume, have their porch lights on or distribute candy to trick-or-treaters. Paroled sex offenders not meeting these conditions could be returned to prison.

Governor Rod R. Blagojevich has signed many laws that tightened restrictions on sex offenders. House Bill 121, which went into effect in July 2005, prevents sex offenders from preying on children during the holidays. The law provides that as a condition of probation, conditional discharge, parole, or mandatory supervised release, a sex offender may not participate in a holiday event involving children under 18 years of age, such as handing out candy on Halloween, wearing a Santa Claus costume on or preceding Christmas, being employed as a department store Santa Claus, or wearing an Easter Bunny costume on or preceding Easter.

IDOC also continues to improve community safety through Governor Blagojevich's Sex Offender Initiative, which includes a specially trained sex offender supervision unit whose main objective is to provide a high level of supervision for sex offenders on parole. Through this initiative, partnerships continue to be enhanced statewide to improve the safety of all families in Illinois.

“IDOC is committed to keeping all essential components of the system working together to ensure the safety of our communities and the effective management of sex offenders,” Walker said. “ However, it is still important for all parents to educate themselves with information regarding the locations of registered sex offenders.”

The Illinois State Police sex offender registry is available online atwww.isp.state.il.us.

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	Director Roger E. Walker Jr. welcomes attendees in his opening remarks at the Illinois Chapters National Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice Conference. Featured right is Marcus Hardy, president of Central Illinois Area Chapter.

IllinoisChapters of the National Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice holds annual conference

Theme focuses on empowering and preparing leaders

SPRINGFIELD - Oct. 18, 2007 - The Illinois Chapters of the National Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice (NABCJ) held its annual conference in Fairview Heights Oct. 10-12 hosted by the Greater Illinois Area Chapter. This year's theme was “Empowering the Leaders of Today to Prepare for the Leaders of Tomorrow.”

“Education and mentoring uplifts the spirit,” said Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) Director Roger E. Walker Jr. in the conference's opening remarks. “It helps to guide others in making sound decisions and having a commitment to personal responsibility on their job and in their lives. But it doesn't stop there,” Walker added. “Our system continues to be a place where thousands of our young are being locked up and locked out of the dream of a normal acceptable lifestyle. Our focus toward helping these individuals should be persuaded by seeing ourselves in a better light by helping each other, and in turn, helping our clients.”

The conference, which was attended by some 200 people, included attendees from local law enforcement, social service and support agencies and IDOC employees representing security, education, parole, program services and administrative and executive staff.

Workshop topics included the IDOC Reentry Initiatives, Women in Corrections, The Meth Epidemic, Empowering Leadership, and Supervision for Corrections Professionals.

Deputy Director of Programs and Support Services Roberta Fews also provided remarks regarding women in corrections and conducted a panel that addressed the topic as well.

“We might lead diverse lives; however, we have something else and that is a common bond to excel and be the best that we can,” Fews said. “To help develop future leaders for tomorrow, we must offer ourselves to be mentors. There is no better exercise for the heart than reaching down and lifting people up.”

Other speakers included Honorable Judge Laninya A. Cason, Associate Judge Duane L. Bailey and Senior Level Law Enforcement Executive Robert Moore.

The NABCJ Illinois Chapters is comprised of the Greater Illinois Area headed by President Alex Dawson, Central Illinois Area headed by President Marcus Hardy and the Windy City Area headed by President Jimmie Daniels.

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	More than 130 people from 28 states attended the National Association of Correctional Record Administrators and Supervisors Workshop. Featured from left are Director of Commitment and Volunteer Services Jodie Stouffer, who works for the Maryland Department of Public Safety and Corrections Services, IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr. and IDOC Records Office Supervisor Glenn Jackson, who also serves as president of NACRAS.

IDOC holds First Annual National Association of Correctional Record Administrators and Supervisors Workshop

Workshop examines, promotes excellence in managing offender records

SPRINGFIELD - Oct. 17, 2007 - The Illinois Department of Corrections hosted the First Annual National Association of Correctional Record Administrators and Supervisors (NACRAS) Workshop in Springfield Sept. 25-26. More than 130 people from 28 states attended the two-day conference.

“IDOC is pleased to have played a significant role in creating NACRAS,” said IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr. “The efforts of this association are a vital component to public safety and interest. Those who perform these functions serve an important role as gatekeepers to the institutions by managing offender records and accurately calculating offender release. This workshop served as an important tool to examine and promote excellence in the management of offender records through the sharing of ideas and philosophies.”

“Prior to the creation of NACRAS, there was no forum that addressed issues pertinent to the profession,” said IDOC Records Office Supervisor Glenn Jackson, who also serves as president of NACRAS.

Jackson noted that the forum allows representatives from across the country to discuss new technology, release protocols, extradition procedures, sentence calculation methods, immigration and deportation procedures, courtroom testimony, the Adam Walsh Act, sex offender registry and other issues important to institutional safety, programming and public safety nationwide.

“The strong representation of state agencies and participants is a clear indication for the need of this educational forum where issues are discussed and addressed,” Jackson added.

In addition to Jackson, the NACRAS steering committee members from IDOC are Julie Bohler at Illinois River, Jeanne Campanella at Robinson and Stephanie Waggoner at Centralia, Margaret McDaniel and Ona Welch at Concordia Court and Deputy Chief Legal Counsel Zachery Wilson at Chicago.

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	A Russian ministry from the Republic of Karelia met with IDOC officials in Springfield Sept. 27 as part of the agency's chaplaincy program. Pastor Igor and Mrs. Elena Zenev and their son Ilya are featured middle front. Also featured left is IDOC Volunteer Services Manager Marcy Morris along with Berean Prison Ministry representatives.

Russian ministry meets with IDOC officials

SPRINGFIELD – Oct. 9, 2007 - A Russian ministry from the Republic of Karelia met with Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) officials at the department's General Headquarters in Springfield on Sept. 27 as part of the agency's chaplaincy program. Pastor Igor and Mrs. Elena Zenev and their son Ilya came to Illinois to visit with chaplains at facilities in which Berean Prison Ministry provides ministry.

Pastor Igor, Deputy Chief of Staff for Public Safety Col. Jill Morgenthaler, Chief of Community Outreach-Special Assistant to the Director Shelith Hansbro and other IDOC and ministry representatives discussed the differences and likenesses of prison ministry in Illinois and Russia.

The Republic of Karelia , which is the size of Illinois , has four prisons and one prison hospital. Each prison holds between 1,000 and 1,500 male inmates. There are no women or juvenile prisons in the Republic of Karelia . To meet with a religious chaplain, inmates must make a special request with the warden. Pastor Igor travels 150 miles one way to visit the closest prison.

“For more than a decade, Berean Prison Ministry has provided support to IDOC in various ways by providing Bibles, volunteers, food, clothing for inmates in work release centers and for those who are close to being released as well as equipment for leisure time activity programs and religious services,” said Volunteer Services Manager Marcy Morris. “We always appreciate their heartfelt donations--and the recent enlightening visit with the Russian ministry.”

Berean Prison Ministry originated years ago in Illinois serving state prisons and county jails. Today it now serves every state in the U.S. and helps missionaries throughout the world.

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	Menard Correctional Center's team won the Men's Championship at the Director's Golf Outing hosted by ICEMA. Featured from left are Correctional Officers Jason Furlow and Jason Buskohl, Director Roger E. Walker Jr., Warden Don Hulick and Correctional Sergeant Larry Wingerter.

ICEMA holds Director's Golf Outing 

SPRINGFIELD - Oct. 2, 2007 - The Illinois Correctional Employees Memorial Association (ICEMA) held the Director's Golf Outing Sept. 21 at Scovill Golf Course in Decatur with 35 teams teeing off early in the morning. The event raised more than $12,000 for the 2008 ICEMA scholarship awards.

Winning teams included:

Men's Championship Team: Menard Correctional Center Team, led by Warden Don Hulick, defended their title for the second-time win.

Co-Ed Team: Consolidated Communications

Women's Team: Fiscal Services Team, led by Accountant Supervisor Sharon Wunder, defended their title for the second-time win.

First Flight Team: Lincoln Correctional Center

Second Flight Team: Graham Correctional Center

Seventeen sponsors for the event donated prizes and funds. Golfers received a “goodie” bag of prizes, including golf accessories, towels, cups and calendars. Following the outing, a meal was served and winners received golf awards and raffle prizes.

“Over the past few years, ICEMA has awarded more than $300,000 in scholarships to the children of ICEMA members. Each year, more scholarships are awarded than the prior year and thanks to the Director's Golf Outing, the number will increase in 2008,” said ICEMA President Austin S. Randolph Jr., who serves as warden of Illinois River Correctional Center.

ICEMA, a non-profit corporation, was incorporated on Oct. 26, 1999,tohonor those correctional employees who gave their lives in the line of duty. On May 10, 2001, the groundbreaking for the memorial began. One year later, on May 9, 2002, the dedication of the Memorial Wall in conjunction with the Correctional Officer of the Year Ceremony was held at the Department of Corrections headquarters. The event recognized those employees who made the ultimate sacrifice and the agency's correctional officers who help shape the future of Corrections through their professionalism and leadership. Now, on an annual basis, ICEMA hosts the Memorial Wall Remembrance and Correctional Officer of the Year Ceremony.

The Illinois Department of Corrections' fallen heroes will never be forgotten. The names of those who made the ultimate sacrifice are inscribed on granite blocks featured on both sides of the memorial wall. 

To learn more about ICEMA, visit its website atwww.icema.info.

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Women in Corrections-Illinois holds inaugural conference

	Deputy Director of Programs and Support Services Roberta Fews (left) and Chief of Community Outreach-Special Assistant to the Director Shelith Hansbro are featured at the Women in Corrections-Illinois Inaugural Conference. Both served as mistress of ceremonies throughout the event.

Conference attracts nearly 250 attendees

SPRINGFIELD - Sept. 25, 2007 - The Women in Corrections-Illinois Inaugural Conference was recently held at Pere Marquette State Park Lodge. The two-day event in September attracted nearly 250 attendees who included participants, presenters, sponsors and vendors. This year's theme, “Empowering Women in Corrections-Different Strategies, Same Goals,” focused on the diversity of women in corrections, the vital role they play and the importance of professional development.

Deputy Chief of Staff for Public Safety Col. Jill Morgenthaler served as keynote speaker. Her presentation,Dare to be a DAME, highlighted how women can obtain personal growth through components such as getting involved orDo it, as well asAttitude,MentoringandEducation.

Director Roger E. Walker Jr., Assistant Director Deanne Benos, Executive Assistant to the Director Sergio Molina, Chief of Operations Rick Bard, Chief of Community Outreach-Special Assistant to the Director Shelith Hansbro and Deputy Director of Programs and Support Services Roberta Fews also addressed the attendees by pointing out the expanded and important role women play in the corrections field.

“Your professionalism and leadership continue to demonstrate excellence in building a safer, stronger and more solid correctional system. I thank you for the dedication and commitment that you bring to the job each and every day,” Walker said.

Fews, who served as conference chairwoman, said the conference had been a vision of hers for several years.

“I have seen extraordinary women in the corrections field serve as exemplary role models and mentors,” said Fews. “The women are from all facets of corrections, yet we stand strong in sharing a commitment to excellence on the job.”

Fews also noted that as the number of women increase in the field, so does the need for professional development, career planning and networking opportunities. The conference served as the cornerstone in achieving that common goal.

Conference topics included Changing the Face of Corrections, Multi-Generational Workforce, Women's Health Issues and Investingfor the Future. A number of IDOC employees served as presenters for panel discussions.

Other highlights included Fews receiving the Distinguished Woman in Corrections award for her commitment to excellence on the job. Fews, a 24-year veteran at IDOC, has held various positions including correctional officer, correctional counselor, casework supervisor and unit superintendent at Stateville, warden at Sheridan, and assistant deputy director of District 1 until being named to her present position.

The Women in Corrections executive committee is in the planning stages for next year's conference and is looking forward to another successful conference.

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Illinois Department of Corrections kicks off 2007 SECA Campaign, holds training for SECA ambassadors

SPRINGFIELD – Sept. 14, 2007 – The Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) today kicked off the 2007 State and University Employees Combined Appeal (SECA) Campaign. The campaign, which runs through Nov. 9, provides state and university employees the opportunity to support participating charities of their choice through payroll deduction or a one-time donation. To support the kickoff, training also was recently conducted at IDOC General Headquarters in Springfield for employees who will serve as ambassadors at their respective facilities to commence the 2007 SECA Campaign.

“I'd like to thank all of the department's SECA ambassadors and everyone who has come on board to help make this year's SECA Campaign a success,” said IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr. “Many of us know and appreciate how these organizations have helped by seeing first hand how friends, neighbors and even our own families have received assistance from such charitable organizations.”

“Not everyone can serve their country in uniform, but everyone can serve in one way or another,” said Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs Director Tammy Duckworth, who is serving as honorary chair for this year's campaign. “By contributing to these charities, you can help enhance the lives of individuals who need help, and that in itself is service. I encourage everyone to give from their heart and serve their country - help the people who need it.”

Walker also praised Corrections employees for their longstanding history of kindness and goodwill.

“The generosity of IDOC employees over the years is truly inspirational,” said Walker. “The agency's employees year after year step up to the plate by donating to organizations that help make a positive difference in the lives of others.”

During the 2006 campaign, IDOC raised $382,000 and won the highest award, the Capitol Cup, for the sixth consecutive year. The award is given to an agency for the most staff participation and exceptional giving. Staff from correctional centers, work camps, boot camps, adult transition centers, juvenile centers, parole offices as well as its General Headquarters, School District No. 428 and Correctional Industries joined together to contribute to one or more charities that provide health and human services to thousands of people in Illinois.

For the 2007 SECA Campaign, IDOC's goal, with participation from the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice, is to raise $371,000.

To learn more about SECA, visit its website atwww.secaillinois.org.

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National Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice - Illinois Conference to be held Oct. 10 – 12 

SPRINGFIELD - Sept. 13, 2007 - The National Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice-Illinois Chapters will be hosting its Annual Conference and Training Institute on Oct. 10-12, 2007, at the Four Points Sheraton Hotel located in Fairview Heights, Ill.

The Conference theme is“Empowering Leaders of Today to Prepare the Leaders of Tomorrow.”This year's theme was created with the intent to encourage leaders in the criminal justice field to share their experiences, thoughts and opinions with those seeking to become future leaders in corrections. Workshop topics will include: IDOC Reentry Initiatives, Women in Corrections, The Meth Epidemic, Empowering Leadership, Supervision for Corrections Professionals and other interesting topics.

Conference attendees will include local law enforcement and Illinois Department of Corrections employees representing security, education, parole, program services and administrative and executive staff. Social service and support agencies will be in attendance as well.

The conference will begin with exclusive IDOC training for programs wardens and clinical services supervisors on Wednesday, Oct. 10, 2007, from 1-5 p.m. The opening session for all attendees will begin at 9 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 11, 2007. The conference will conclude on Friday, Oct. 12, 2007, at 3 p.m.

Registration: Advanced registration is $100. After Sept. 22, registration is $115.
The registration process consists of mailing a check or money order along with a completed registration form to:

Greater Illinois Area Chapter - NABCJ
P.O. Box 6152
Springfield , IL. 62708

Hotel Information:
Four Points Sheraton Hotel
319 Fountain Parkway
Fairview Heights , IL 62208
Phone: (618) 622-9500
Rooms are available at $70.00 single or double occupancy.

Contact Information:
If you have questions about the conference, please contact Casandra Wright at 314-712-5373, Jimmie Daniels at 630-607-4186, Keith Anglin 217-766-5626.

Illinois Department of Corrections to feature large display at Illinois State Fair

	The Honor Guard will present colors on Aug. 10, opening day of the Illinois State Fair, at the IDOC tent as well as on Aug. 15. Other performances during the fair include the K-9 Unit and Helping Paws.

Displays feature the Governor’s Operation Spotlight Reentry Program, Sheridan National Drug Prison and Reentry Program, National Model Meth Prison and Reentry Program, Women and Family Services programs, Illinois Correctional Industries, Volunteer Services, Victim Services and Recruitment as well as the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice (IDJJ).

The following performances also will take place:

HONOR GUARD:

The Honor Guard will present colors at the tent Aug. 10 and Aug. 15 at 10 a.m.

The Honor Guard is a statewide team with members from IDOC and IDJJ facilities. The Honor Guard provides details to present colors at funerals and graveside services, groundbreakings and dedications as well as other agency events.

K-9 UNIT:              

Performances will be held Aug. 10 and Aug. 15 at 1:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.

The K-9 Unit is used to assist with the operational needs of the department during routine and critical incidents.

HELPING PAWS:  

Performances will be held Aug. 10, 11, 12, 13, 18 and 19 at 12:30 p.m., 2:30p.m. and 4:30 p.m.

The Helping Paws Program is a service dog training program where offenders train dogs for individuals who have special needs.

The IDOC State Fair Committee encourages the public and employees to stop by during their visit to the fair. 

Note:IDOC’s Women and Family Services Division recently initiated the Moms and Babies Program at Decatur Correctional Center. The program allows qualified mothers to keep their newborn babies with them and supports the incarcerated mother in developing and nurturing a bond with her infant through effective programming and a safe and supportive living environment. Anyone wishing to donate items for the Moms and Babies Program are encouraged to bring them to the tent. Items needed include: baby books (to record baby’s progress); baby toiletries, such as lotion, ointment, powder, shampoo, wipes; baby bibs; blankets; booties; baby bottles (plastic only); car seats; clothing; crib mobiles and activity toys; diaper bags; diaper champ; diapers; infant seats; onsies; pacifiers; rattles; sleepers, strollers; swings; teething rings; towels and wash cloths.

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IDOC recognized as a leader in recycling rechargeable batteries

	IDOC was recently presented an award for its leadership in recycling rechargeable batteries by the Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation (RBRC).  Featured from left are Community Outreach Chief Shelith Hansbro, Manager of Telecommunications Larry Moritz, RBRC Manager of Marketing and Media Relations Linda Gabor, Director Roger E. Walker Jr., Communications Equipment Technician Ron Alexander and Radio System Supervisor Tom Costa of the Telecommunications Unit, and Brigitte Smith of the Director's Office.

Agency receives award for outstanding recycling efforts

SPRINGFIELD - July 16, 2007 - The Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) was recognized with the 2006 “Regional Recycling Leadership Award,” by the Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation (RBRC), a nonprofit public service organization dedicated to recycling used rechargeable batteries and old cell phones. RBRC presented the award on June 13, 2007, to IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr. at the agency's general headquarters.

IDOC is one of the major leaders in the nations' correctional systems that recycle rechargeable batteries. Since joining the RBRC program in 2002, IDOC has implemented a successful statewide enrollment program with 21 collection locations for rechargeable batteries in correction department radio shops. As a result of these efforts, IDOC has collected nearly 10,000 pounds of rechargeable batteries since its inception with the program. Ron Alexander, communications equipment technician at IDOC, works with each site to make collections available in each location and is working to expand collections to other departments throughout the agency. In 2006, IDOC efforts resulted in the collection of nearly 2,100 pounds of rechargeable batteries.

“TheCall2Recycleprogram is a great partnership between the Illinois Department of Corrections and the Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation,” said Director Walker. “The Illinois Department of Corrections generates a significant number of spent batteries and this program is a simple and easy way for us to do our part to protect the environment. We are pleased to participate in the program and will continue to look at expanding recycling opportunities at all of our facilities.”

“It is through efforts by groups like the Illinois Department of Corrections that we continue to develop new and innovative ways to make it easy to recycle used rechargeable batteries and old cell phones,” said Norm England, president and chief executive officer of RBRC.

The RBRC Recycling Leadership Award recognizes RBRC community program participants each year for their outstanding efforts in rechargeable battery and cell phone recycling.

The RBRC rechargeable battery and cell phone recycling program is available to communities and public agencies without any associated fees. There are currently more than 5,000 local communities that participate in theCall2Recycleprogram throughout U.S. and Canada.

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IDOC to host Women in Corrections-Illinois Conference

SPRINGFIELD – July 11, 2007 - The Illinois Department of Corrections will be hosting the Women in Corrections-Illinois Conference on Sept. 4-5, 2007, at Pere Marquette Lodge and Conference Center in Grafton , Ill.

The Conference theme is“Empowering Women in Corrections - Different Strategies, Same Goals”with a focus on finding success in a male-dominated profession. Conference topics will include: Changing the Face of Corrections, Multi-Generational Workforce, Women's Health Issues, Investingfor the Future, and other interesting topics.

Conference attendees will include local law enforcementand Illinois Department of Corrections employees representing Security, Education, Parole, Program Services and Administrative and Executive staff.

The conference will begin with a luncheon at noon on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2007, and conclude on Wed., Sept. 5, 2007, at 1 p.m.

Registration:Registration form- Registration is Closed

Registration is now open. Please sign up early! Space is limited to 200 participants. Attendees are responsible for making their own lodging reservations. The deadline to register is Aug. 15, 2007.

The registration process consists of mailing a $25 check or money order along with a completedregistration formto:

Women in Corrections – Illinois
Attn: Mary Ann Bohlen
P.O. Box 5457
Springfield , Ill. 62705

Hotel Information:

Pere Marquette Lodge & Conference Center
Illinois Route 100 – The Great River Road -
P.O. Box 429
13653 Lodge Boulevard
Grafton , IL 62037
Phone: (618) 786-2331
Fax: (618) 786-3498

Rooms are available at $60.00 single occupancy or $80.00 double occupancy.

Contact Information:

If you have questions about the conference, please contact Robin Riggs at 217-558-2200 extension 3610 or Petty at 217-558-2200 ext. 6662 with the Illinois Department of Corrections.

IDOC officially opens Moms and Babies Program at Decatur Correctional Center

	The Moms and Babies Program is designed to help strengthen the special bond that is critical to a healthy mother and child relationship. The pilot program at Decatur Correctional Center can currently accommodate five mothers and their babies, with a long-range goal of housing up to 20 mothers and babies.

Program helps strengthen family structure and enhance successful reentry back to the community

DECATUR - May 10, 2007 - The Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) Women and Family Services Division today hosted a special ribbon cutting ceremony for the Moms and Babies Program at Decatur Correctional Center. The program allows qualified mothers to keep their newborn babies with them and supports the incarcerated mother in developing and nurturing a bond with her infant through effective programming and a safe and supportive living environment. The program also affords the opportunity to build a sound foundation for a strong family structure to continue upon release.

“The Mom and Babies program is designed to help strengthen the special bond that is critical to a healthy mother child relationship. This new program recognizes the parental role and responsibilities of the female offender and helps prepare her to take proper care of her child when she reenters society,” said IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr. “We want to give moms and babies a good start together for a more productive life outside the confines of the correctional facility.”

The Moms and Babies Program is a pilot program that can currently accommodate five mothers and their babies, with a long-range goal of housing up to 20 mothers and babies. The Moms and Babies Program continues to be in the forefront of gender-responsive programming by providing opportunity for the incarcerated mother and her newborn to bond in a setting that nurtures physical and emotional health. Such programming helps to reduce recidivism and the chances of children someday continuing the cycle of incarceration.

According to a May 2004 study by the National Resource Center for Foster Care and Permanency Planning at the Hunter College School of Social Work, early attachment patterns are predictive of social behaviors. Keeping incarcerated mothers and their babies together can work preemptively against future psychosocial problems for the child and their associated burdens on the state. It can also motivate the mothers to better themselves, both in prison and in their lives beyond it.

“The Moms and Babies Program provides a holistic approach for the female offender and her newborn and the opportunity for the offender to increase her personal and parental growth and development,” said Deputy Director Debbie Denning of Women and Family Services. “This program is designed to emulate the dynamics consistent with an indigent, single, expecting mother in the community while ensuring proper protocol is followed for a correctional environment.”

Selected candidates with a release date projected to be within about 24 months of their delivery date are screened for the program. After delivery, t he incarcerated mothers and their babies will have their own room in the correctional facility to accommodate the needs of the mother and baby. The program also will have a specially designed Infant Development Center to provide daycare for infants while their incarcerated mothers attend programming classes and report for job assignments within the prison.

The Women and Family Services Division promotes a variety of programs to strengthen and reinforce the bonding between mothers and their children. Children and families play an important role in the management of offenders in custodial settings. All facilities within the Women and Family Services Division offer parenting programs. At the Decatur , Dwight, Lincoln and Fox Valley facilities, family activities range from day camps, video visiting, storybook and summer read programs as well as holiday activities for mothers and children.

Individuals or groups interested in supporting the program can contact the Women and Family Services Division at Decatur Correctional Center at 217-877-0353, ext. 422.

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Blagojevich administration officials recognize Correctional Officers of the Year for 2007

Five front line employees awarded top honors

SPRINGFIELD - May 8, 2007 - Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) Director Roger E. Walker Jr. and Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice (IDJJ) Acting Director Kurt Friedenauer today honored five outstanding front line employees as 2007 Correctional Officers of the Year at a ceremony in Springfield.

The winners were chosen from a field of 50 nominees, who were nominated for the award by their colleagues. The overall winner was chosen by the departments' executive staff.

Director Walker and Acting Director Friedenauer commended the efforts of front line staff within their respective agencies.

“In every decision we make and in every action we take, safety is at the forefront of our operations,” Walker said. “This fine group of men and women serve with steadfast commitment in fulfilling the mission of the Illinois Department of Corrections.”

“The department is committed to providing treatment and educational, vocational, social and emotional services to the state's young offenders to help them get on the right track,” said Friedenauer. “The employees being recognized today are commended for their support in this endeavor.”

Nominations for this year's award come from officers recognized at each of the state's 28 prisons, eight juvenile centers, eight adult transition centers and five parole districts. This year's top five front line employees were presented with recognition letters from the governor and IDOC and IDJJ directors and a $500 check from the Employee Benefit Fund. The nominees are judged on leadership, initiative, professionalism and service to their community and career.

Employees receiving top honors during a ceremony at IDOC and IDJJ General Headquarters in Springfield are:

Correctional Officer Michael Range of Stateville Correctional Center
C.O. Range has an impeccable attendance record. He is currently assigned to the Office of Overtime Equalization. Officer Range does an outstanding job in maintaining organization of the office, ensuring all staff time usage issues are addressed and overtime information is processed in a professional and timely manner. Officer Range is always willing to stop what he is doing to assist staff with problems and questions concerning attendance or overtime issues.

Correctional Officer Vincente Nerio of Lincoln Correctional Center
C.O. Nerio is admired by all staff and offenders for his positive attitude and professional demeanor. Officer Nerio is a self-motivated employee who continuously takes the initiative to assist his fellow staff members, often volunteering to assist with line movement, escorting visitors and processing paperwork for signatures. Officer Nerio's willingness to assist staff with any task is admirable.

Correctional Residence Counselor I Gather Warnsley of Decatur Adult Transition Center
CRCI Warnsley has been an outstanding employee with the agency. He reports to his shift as scheduled with little use of sick time. His coordinator duties, which he excels in at the center, includes bureau of identification coordinator and key and lock and volunteer coordinator. He stepped in as a training and drug testing coordinator and has done an outstanding job in handling those positions. He has proven to be a valuable asset to this facility.

Youth Supervisor II Kess Roberson of Illinois Youth Center - Harrisburg
YSII Roberson is assigned to the confinement area on 2 nd shift, which is a critical position at the facility. This post requires a staff person with great knowledge, a positive attitude, professionalism, teamwork and commitment. YSII Roberson meets all of the requirements to be assigned to this post. It is critical for this post to have a youth supervisor with these requirements to be able to deal with the difficult youth who are placed in confinement for discipline issues and to be able to ensure that the safety and well being of the youths are met.

Senior Parole Agent Tina Butler of District 5
Agent Butler 's evaluations read like a tribute from every supervisor. She is professional, dependable, dedicated, a proven leader and is always there when you need someone. She assists supervisors, fellow agents, clerical staff and persons who need help, advice or counsel. Agent Butler has always approached her position with respect, dignity and style, never allowing any of her personal feelings to interfere with her sworn duty.

Other facility nominees include:

C.O. Nominee list for 2007

Adult Correctional Centers
Big Muddy River - Correctional Officer Ventures Jackson
Centralia - Correctional Officer Bretton Frierson
Danville - Correctional Officer Robert Hamilton
Dixon - Correctional Officer Bruce Langholf
East Moline – Correctional Sgt. Gary Peters
Graham - Correctional Officer Lonnie Little
Hill - Correctional Officer Brian Lynch
Illinois River - Correctional Officer Kenneth Montgomery
Jacksonville - Correctional Sergeant Dennis Scroggins
Lawrence - Correctional Officer Linda Keller
Logan - Correctional Officer William E. Lawson
Menard - Correctional Officer Charles Antry
Pinckneyville - Correctional Officer Charles Heck
DuQuoin Impact Incarceration Program - Correctional Officer Ted Higgins
Pontiac - Correctional Officer Shawn Farrar
Robinson - Correctional Sgt. Jesse Purcell
Shawnee - Correctional Sgt. Tim Gage
Sheridan - Correctional Officer Kurtis Tirevold
Southwestern Illinois - Correctional Officer Christopher Marshall
Tamms - Correctional Officer John Sherrard
Taylorville - Correctional Officer William Schmitz
Thompson - Correctional Officer Norman Balk
Vandalia - Correctional Officer Denise Schilling
Vienna - Correctional Officer Jerald Howell
Western Illinois - Correctional Officer Jeff Korte

Adult Transition Centers
Crossroads - Correctional Residence Counselor Sharonna Houston
Fox Valley ATC - Correctional Residence Counselor I James Luttrell
Jessie “Ma” Houston ATC - Correctional Residence Counselor I Terry Edge
North Lawndale's ATC - Correctional Residence Counselor I Ernestine Howard
Peoria ATC - Correctional Residence Counselor I Steve Anglin
Southern Illinois ATC - Correctional Residence Counselor II James Lamb
West Side ATC - Correctional Residence Counselor II Larry O. Julion

Women and Family Services
Decatur - Correctional Officer James Pugh
Dwight - Correctional Officer Rickey DeLoach

Illinois Youth Centers
IYC-Chicago - Youth Supervisor II Chikuita Rush
IYC-Joliet - Youth Supervisor II Mark Konopka
IYC-Kewanee - Youth Supervisor IV David Kuebel
IYC-Murphysboro - Youth Supervisor II Cheryl Jones
IYC-Pere Marquette - Youth Supervisor IV Jerald Murphy
IYC-St. Charles - Youth Supervisor III Alvin Everett
IYC-Warrenville - Youth Supervisor III Latricia Jones

Parole
District 1 - Senior Parole Agent Tim Christianson
District 2 - Senior Parole Agent Martin “Marty” Voreis
District 3, Sex Offender Supervision Unit - Senior Parole AgentWilliam Beckett
District 4 - Parole Agent Cynthia Keck

EDITOR'S NOTE:Contact Derek Schnapp at 217-558-0518 or Januari Smith at 217-558-1544 for interview requests.

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Illinois Department of Corrections to co-sponsor event at SIUC addressing the impact and issues of addiction

Event to feature special screening of HBO's “Addiction” and panel presentation on addiction in Town Hall Meeting forum

SPRINGFIELD - April 27, 2007 - The Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) is reaching out to students and community members at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale (SIUC) to educate people on the dangers of addiction. IDOC, along with the SIUC Rehabilitation Institute, Illinois Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Professional Certification Association and Civigenics will present a special screening of HBO's “Addiction” on Monday, April 30, beginning at 12:30 p.m., followed by a panel presentation of leading experts on the subject.

“Many of us see friends and loved ones trapped by addiction that in some cases can ruin their lives. IDOC is proud to team up with community leaders, statewide experts and community-based providers to communicate the importance of addressing addiction issues,” said IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr.

“Addiction,” a 90-minute documentary, is designed to educate the public about a disease that affects millions of people across the United States . The film includes candid, personal stories from drug abusers and interviews with the nation's leading experts in the field.

Nearly 69 percent of Illinois ' prison population is incarcerated for a drug-involved crime. Delivering on his promise to fight recidivism, increase public safety and reduce the cost of crime, Governor Rod R. Blagojevich has given IDOC the opportunity to reach out across the state and nation to seek and develop model programs to enhance the successful reentry of inmates.

“The Governor and IDOC are committed to this goal. Within its operations, the department manages thousands of inmates who have some sort of drug problem. It's imperative that we find a treatment for each individual in a effort to prevent them from reoffending,” Walker added

A major goal at IDOC is taking prison-based treatment and re-entry management to the next level of performance. Drug offenses are not the only manifestation of drugs in the corrections system. Somewhere between 65 and 80 percent of all those arrested and incarcerated have some sort of drug-use history. These statistics suggest that at any given time more than 25,000 inmates in Illinois prisons are in need of some form of drug intervention.

Major initiatives include the Sheridan National Model Drug Prison and Reentry Program and the National Model Meth Prison and Reentry Program.

SheridanNational Model Drug Prison and Reentry Program

In recognizing that drugs are a leading cause of recidivism, the Governor opened the Sheridan National Drug Prison and Reentry Program in January 2004. The goal of the Sheridan project is to establish a working model for statewide reform in the way drug-involved offenders are managed in the corrections system. IDOC has teamed up with partners and community-based providers to provide the new, cutting-edge model for reducing crime.

This program targets drug-involved offenders for a 6 to 24 month intensive prison-based drug treatment, vocational training and job preparation program that culminates with an extensive case management and highly supervised community reentry program upon completion of their sentence.

The eligibility structure for the Sheridan project is fairly unique in the nation because it takes on a medium-security population and offenders with three lengths of sentences: 6-9 months, 9-12 months and 12-24 months. Most facilities in the nation take a smaller minimum-security population with a more specific sentence period. Sheridan is taking the 6-9 month population because inmates tend to cycle in and out of prisons for short periods of time and never truly gain access to a consistent set of drug treatment services either in prison or in the community. The project is also taking the 9-12 month population because it is projected to be the most effective length of time for an offender to successfully experience a therapeutic model treatment program. Finally, the project has chosen to continue the program for the 12-24 month population to graduate those staying beyond 12 months into a more intensive vocational, job placement and reentry life skills set of programs.

The Sheridan project is showing promise. Recent analysis shows that it has reduced recidivism of participants by more than 40 percent better than a comparison group.  Also, a larger percentage of Sheridan program participants are becoming employed more regularly and quickly, compared to other parolees.

National Model Meth Prison and Reentry Program

Another innovative program of the Governor is the establishment of a Meth Prison and Reentry Program at Southwestern Illinois Correctional in fiscal year 2007 and at Sheridan Correctional Center in fiscal year 2008. Meth has become a growing crisis in the State of Illinois with prison admissions rising from only 6 in fiscal year 1999 to 421 in fiscal year 2004. The current prison population for Meth offenders is more than 800 with countless others in prison who are believed to have committed their offense while under the influence of the drug.  

Southwestern Illinois Correctional Center in East St. Louis will become a first-of-its-kind national model for reducing crime and recidivism among Meth offenders. The Meth Prison and Reentry Program will focus on specific challenges facing people addicted to Meth so they can lead productive crime-and drug-free lives once they return to their families and communities.

As with the Sheridan Program, IDOC has chosen a group of partners and community-based providers to help build this national model for reducing crime. Under the Meth Prison Initiative, hundreds of IDOC inmates at Southwestern will undergo a newly developed, highly intensive drug treatment and community reentry program to combat Meth addiction and reduce crime.

In fiscal year 2007, a 200-bed Meth unit was created at the Southwestern facility. The facility will become a fully dedicated drug prison and reentry program in the model of the Sheridan prison program.  In fiscal year 2008, Sheridan plans to expand from 950 offenders to its full capacity of 1,300 offenders with 200 of those spaces being used for a Meth Unit. 

As with the current Sheridan model, inmates in both programs will access intensive prison-based drug treatment programs, vocational training, job preparation and mental health services. In addition, their treatment will continue upon completion of their sentence under a highly supervised transition back to their communities.

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IDOC raises $382,000 for 2006 SECA Campaign, wins top honors for sixth consecutive year

	IDOC received the highest award, the Capitol Cup, for the sixth consecutive year. The award is given to an agency for the most staff participation and exceptional giving. Featured are SECA Campaign Manager John Farmer, SECA Statewide Administrator Cindy Dixon, IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr., and Acting Director of Central Management Services Maureen O'Donnell.

SPRINGFIELD – April 19, 2007 - The Illinois Department of Corrections won top honors in the 2006 State Employees Combined Appeal (SECA) Campaign at the SECA Awards Reception held April 19 at the Executive Mansion in Springfield. IDOC received the highest award, the Capitol Cup, for the sixth consecutive year. The award is given to an agency for the most staff participation and exceptional giving.

The SECA Campaign is a once-a-year fundraising drive that allows state and university employees to contribute to participating charities through either payroll deductions or a one-time donation. Through the campaign, employees direct their contributions to up to 11 member charities, which in turn represent more than 2,200 charitable organizations.

Dr. Carol Adams, secretary of Department of Human Services, served as the 2006 SECA Honorary Chair. In reaching the goal of $3 million to meet important social service needs, SECA achieved a significant milestone of raising nearly $54 million since its inception in 1983.

During the 2006 campaign, IDOC raised $382,000. Staff from the agency's correctional centers, work camps, boot camps, adult transition centers, juvenile centers, parole offices as well as its General Headquarters, School District No. 428 and Correctional Industries joined together to contribute to one or more charities that provide health and human services to thousands of people in Illinois.

“The dedication of the agency's employees to help those in need is amazing,” said IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr. “Corrections employees have a longstanding history of kindness and goodwill. Their generous giving to charitable organizations helps many of those in need in a very positive way. From the young to the old, these gifts benefit our neighbors, our friends and even our families. It's important for us to continue to build on this tradition of kindness and to demonstrate the willingness to help make a difference.” Walker noted that Winston Churchill once reflected on the importance of helping others when he said, “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give."

For more information about SECA and its member charities, log on to the SECA web site atwww.secaillinois.org.

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Illinois Departments of Corrections and Juvenile Justice name 2007 Volunteers of the Year

“Together We Create a Better Tomorrow”
ceremony recognizes volunteers

SPRINGFIELD - April 18, 2007 - The Illinois Departments of Corrections (IDOC) and Juvenile Justice (IDJJ) announced the recipients of the 2007 Volunteer of the Year awards at a recognition ceremony held today in Springfield. Phillip L. McLaurin was named IDOC 2007 Volunteer of the Year and Tim Tomlinson at Illinois Youth Center – Pere Marquette was named as the 2007 Volunteer of the Year for IDJJ. McLaurin and Tomlinson were among volunteers of the state's 28 adult correctional centers, eight adult transition centers and eight youth facilities who were being honored for their outstanding leadership and their efforts in providing positive change in the lives of inmates and youths.

“In the past several years, our nation has rediscovered that reaching out to help others is essential to our well-being,” said IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr. “Volunteers are the ones who unselfishly give of themselves and step forward in times of need. We saw it after September 11th, we saw it after Hurricane Katrina. And, closer to the home front at Corrections, we see it every day in our prisons. I am very proud of the agency's employees and volunteers alike. Together, they stand strong as one family and move the department forward by providing positive change in the lives of inmates.”

“Volunteers play a significant role in our agency through the mentoring of incarcerated youth,” said IDJJ Acting Director Kurt Friedenauer. “Their teachings and words of encouragement are important to the well-being of the youth. Through their positive guidance, youths are able to gain valuable life skills that play a vital part when returning to their families and communities.”

	Featured are Southwestern Illinois Correctional Center Warden James Davidson (left), IDOC Volunteer of the Year Phillip L. McLaurin, Volunteer Services Manager Marcy Nolan, IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr. and Community Outreach Chief Shelith Hansbro.

Phillip L. McLaurin
Phillip L. McLaurin, a college counselor for SIU-Edwardsville, has provided volunteer services at Southwestern Illinois Correctional Center in East St. Louis since 2004. He assists offenders to achieve educational goals and develop self-esteem and vocational skills through various programs. During this past year, he has given offenders the opportunity to become a positive asset to the communities they return to and has also increased their awareness of continued substance rehabilitation. His professionalism and motivating attitude brings an enhancement to the programs established to help offenders become productive citizens upon their return to the community.

McLaurin also participates as a volunteer in the Pre-Start program and illustrates various skills and techniques for successful job interviews. Through his volunteer services, offenders have experienced a change in their attitude and outlook on life. This has been evident by the increased number of men requesting information on various vocational programs and educational and job opportunities offered to offenders. As stated in his nomination, he sets standards for others to follow. His tireless efforts, genuine attitudes and concerns have made an impact in the lives of those who are less fortunate and have set standards for others to follow.

Tim Tomlinson
Tim Tomlinson is an Ivy League Emeritus Associate Director of the Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania . He began dedicating his time to IYC-Pere Marquette in March 2005 as an educational tutor. Since then, a number of youths have graduated from eighth grade, high school or obtained their GED. During graduation ceremonies, Tomlinson served as the center's guest speaker and encouraged youth to strive to be the best they can.

	Featured are Volunteer Services Manager Marcy Nolan (left), IDJJ Volunteer of the Year Tim Tomlinson, IDJJ Acting Director Kurt Friedenauer and Community Outreach Chief Shelith Hansbro.

Tomlinson's passion of helping others is evident in the hours he volunteers weekly. He was instrumental in serving as coordinator of the center's new program, GROWE (Garnering Responsibility, Ownership and Work Ethic), which is a horticulture program focusing on learning through the personal care of various trees, plants and flowers. Tomlinson has students research the plants' origin and then empowers and encourages them to provide slide presentations to both youth and staff on the difference between annuals and perennials. Tomlinson is a valuable resource for IYC-Pere Marquette. According to his nomination, his passion, commitment and expertise are priceless.

More than 5,000 volunteers provide programs and services that otherwise would not be available to the incarcerated men, women and youth located within the IDOC and IDJJ. During the past year, volunteers have donated more than $2 million in time and goods to the incarcerated.

At IDOC and IDJJ, volunteers assist in various ways ranging from mentoring and meeting the religious needs of inmates to offering alcohol and drug rehabilitation such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous. Volunteers tutor, hold church services and Bible studies as well as parenting, art, music, poetry and literacy classes.

IDOC operates 28 adult correctional centers, eight adult transition centers as well as various work camps and boot camps. The agency is responsible for managing more than 80,000 inmates and parolees.

IDJJ operates eight youth centers and oversees 1,400 incarcerated juveniles. By creating IDJJ in July 2006, young offenders receive individualized services including educational, vocational, social and emotional services that will help enable them to become productive adults. In addition to the services provided inside juvenile facilities, the new department also provides transitional and post-release treatment programs for juveniles, including counseling, mental health and substance abuse services.

If you are interested in the Volunteer Services Program at IDOC, contact Marcy Nolan, volunteer services manager, at 217-558-2200 ext. 6101.

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Correctional Officer Nicholson presents Director Walker with American flag in appreciation of IDOC’s support of deployed employees

	Mark Nicholson, correctional officer at Jacksonville Correctional Center, presents Illinois Department of Corrections Director Roger E. Walker Jr. with an American flag that was flown over Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar with a Certificate of Authentication

SPRINGFIELD – March 9, 2007 - Mark Nicholson, correctional officer at Jacksonville Correctional Center, recently presented Illinois Department of Corrections Director Roger E. Walker Jr. with an American flag that was flown over Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar with a Certificate of Authentication.

The certificate reads, “This is to certify on Aug. 4, 2006, this American flag flew over Al Udeid Air Base during Operation Iraqi and Enduring Freedom. This flag represents our dedication and steadfast devotion to duty in the fight against global terror and the vindication of the thousands of innocent people that perished during the World Trade Center and Pentagon terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. May God grant them and their families peace.”

“The flag and certificate are just my way of saying thank you for all the support IDOC has given me and all deployed employees,” said Nicholson, who has been with IDOC since 1999 and recently served overseas from May 2006 to September 2006. Nicholson, a technical sergeant (TSGT), has served 21 years in the U.S. Air Force. He served active duty for 10 years from 1986 to 1996 and later for the Air National Guard from 1996 to present.

“It is an indeed a great honor to receive this flag and certificate from one of our employees who bravely has served his country,” said Walker. “IDOC thanks all of its employees for their service to our country. It is our patriotic duty to support the brave men and women who put their lives on the line to protect our freedom.”

IDOC supports veterans in a number of significant ways, such as through the hiring and retention of veterans, National Guard and Reserve Soldiers. IDOC also reaches out through employment recruitment efforts to those who are interested in becoming correctional officers. Currently, IDOC has more than 6,700 employees who are veterans and 77 employees who are on active military leave.

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IDOC to implement Moms and Babies Program at Decatur Correctional Center

Program to help strengthen family structure and enhance successful reentry back to the community

SPRINGFIELD – March 6, 2007 - The Illinois Department of Corrections Women and Family Services Division is implementing a Moms and Babies Program at Decatur Correctional Center that will allow qualified mothers who will be leaving the prison in a specific period of time to keep their newborn babies with them. The program supports the incarcerated mother in developing and nurturing a bond with her infant through effective programming and a safe and supportive living environment. The program also affords the opportunity to build a sound foundation for a strong family structure to continue upon release.

“The Illinois Department of Corrections is dedicated to the successful reentry of inmates into society through its prison-based treatment programming and reentry management,” said IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr. “The programs under Women and Family Services are designed to address the unique medical, social, psychological and education needs of the committed female offender. The division also serves the needs of the female offender by the development of special programs, such as the Moms and Babies Program which recognizes, supports and maintains her parental role and responsibilities.”

The Moms and Babies Program will operate as a pilot program to accommodate five mothers and their babies. The long-range goal is to accommodate up to 20 mothers and babies. The Moms and Babies Program continues to be in the forefront of gender-responsive programming by providing opportunity for the incarcerated mother and her newborn to bond in a setting that nurtures physical and emotional health. Such programming helps to reduce recidivism and the chances of children someday continuing the cycle of incarceration.

According to a study by the National Resource Center for Foster Care and Permanency Planning at the Hunter College School of Social Work dated May 2004, numerous studies show early attachment patterns to be predictive of social behaviors. Keeping incarcerated mothers and their babies together can work preemptively against future psychosocial problems for the child and their associated burdens on the state. It can also motivate the mothers to better themselves, both in prison and in their lives beyond it.

“The Moms and Babies Program will provide a holistic approach for the female offender and her newborn and the opportunity for the offender to increase her personal and parental growth and development,” said Deputy Director Debbie Denning of Women and Family Services. “This program is designed to emulate the dynamics consistent with an indigent, single, expecting mother in the community while ensuring proper protocol is followed for a correctional environment.”

Selected candidates with a release date projected to be within about 24 months of their delivery date will be screened for the program. Delivery will take place at a local hospital and prenatal and postnatal education provided. The incarcerated mothers and their babies will have their own room in the correctional facility to accommodate the needs of the mother and baby. The Moms and Babies wing is capable of holding up to 20 incarcerated mothers and their children. The program also will have a specially designed Infant Development Center to provide daycare for infants while their incarcerated mothers attend programming classes and report for job assignments within the prison.

The Women and Family Services Division promotes a variety of programs to strengthen and reinforce the bonding between mothers and their children. Children and families play an important role in the management of offenders in custodial settings. All facilities within the Women and Family Services Division offer parenting programs. At the Decatur, Dwight, Lincoln and Fox Valley facilities, family activities range from day camps, video visiting, storybook and summer read programs as well as holiday activities for mothers and children.

Individuals or groups interested in supporting the program can contact the Women and Family Services Division at Decatur Correctional Center at 217-877-0353, ext. 422.

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IDOC recognizes its tactical commanders, assistant commanders during appreciation ceremony

	IDOC recently held an appreciation ceremony to recognize the exemplary efforts of the agency’s tactical commanders and assistant commanders. Director Roger E. Walker Jr. and senior management are featured with the commanders of the state’s 28 adult correctional centers.

Springfield – Dec. 18, 2006 - The Illinois Department of Corrections recently held a special recognition and appreciation ceremony for the agency’s tactical commanders and assistant commanders for their exemplary efforts and dedication in safeguarding the state’s correctional centers.

“We all hold a common purpose here and that is to keep our prisons safe and secure,” IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr. said during the ceremony. “I have always carried a great respect for your leadership and commitment to protect our staff, inmates and the public.”

Tactical teams are available for immediate activation to respond to the operational needs of the department during routine or critical incidents. The position of a tactical member is voluntary and requires intense training. When called upon, tactical units will respond at a moment’s notice anywhere within the state’s prison system.

“Your roles are extremely vital on the frontline,” Walker told the commanders. “Your skills and decision-making are of utmost importance. We depend on our tactical teams to be the first through the door during an emergency response. We depend on your expertise and skills to guide our operations to a successful conclusion.”

During the ceremony, the commanders and assistant commanders from the agency’s 28 adult correctional centers received certificates of recognition. Special Operations Commander Cecil Polley along with Regional Tactical Commanders Rod Brady and Joe Durham also were recognized for their expertise and leadership in guiding and supporting the department’s mission of operating safe and secure prisons and ensuring public safety.

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IDOC continues to help communities with debris cleanup following severe winter storm

	IDOC staff and inmate work crews provide cleanup restoration following the severe ice and snow storm that struck Central Illinois Nov. 30.

Recent cleanup effort is IDOC’s fourth major disaster recovery project this year

SPRINGFIELD - Dec. 13, 2006 – Even though most of the snow and ice has melted from the winter blast that recently hit the region, the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) staff and inmate work crews continue to help communities in their cleanup and recovery efforts. Work crews totaling 1,015 inmates and 142 staff have been deployed to nearly 20 communities in seven counties to provide debris removal since Dec. 4.

“When disaster strikes, IDOC is there to help,” said IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr. “This is the fourth major storm this year in which IDOC has reached out to help communities in their time of need. The leadership and professionalism of our staff, who report in a moment’s notice to organize and supervise work details, is commendable.”

The 102 work crews from Vandalia, Decatur, Taylorville, Lincoln, Logan and Southwestern Correctional Centers as well as Green County Work Camp already have logged in more than 9,250 hours in disaster relief efforts to restore stability to communities affected by the Nov. 30 storm. Work crews assignments have included Decatur, Niantic, Warrensburg, Argenta, Taylorville, Kincaid, Buffalo, Mechanicsburg, Nokomis, Schram City, Lincoln, Chestnut, Mt. Pulaski, Belleville, Smithton, Stookey Township, Morrisonville, Greenville and Harvel.

“IDOC staff and inmates are out in the communities working side-by-side with other government agencies and civilians in providing disaster relief,” Walker said. “This year, IDOC work crews also have provided debris removal following two devastating tornadoes that hit March 12 and April 2 as well as the July 21 severe storm. The July 21 storm has resulted in the longest disaster recovery project undertaken by IDOC in history, not including flood response.”

In this year’s earlier disaster recovery projects, IDOC staff and inmate work crews logged more than 33,000 hours assisting with the July 21 storm and another 11,000 hours with the two March and April tornadoes, according to Mike McKinney, assistant warden of operations at Jacksonville Correctional Center, who also serves as IDOC liaison to the Illinois Emergency Management Agency.

“The goal of supporting communities through public service projects provides inmates with a structured agenda that develops responsibility, self-discipline, self-respect and a good work ethic,” said Walker. “Their willingness to get involved in community service enhances their ability to reintegrate into society and live as responsible, law-abiding and productive citizens. The use of staff and inmate work crews assisting in these disaster relief projects also serves as a valuable asset to the taxpayer as well as those affected by devastating disasters.”

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Corrections Helping Paws Service Dog Program helps to transform lives 

	Jack, a schnoodle, is being trained to assist a person who uses a wheelchair. More than 100 dogs have completed the Helping Paws Service Dog Program at Dwight Correctional Center since its May 2000 inception.

More than 100 dogs complete training program

SPRINGFIELD - Dec. 5, 2006 - The Helping Paws Service Dog Program at Dwight Correctional Center is one of the first dog training programs in the state involving inmates as trainers. Since the program’s inception in May 2000, inmates have been training dogs to perform a variety of services, such as opening cabinets and doors, retrieving objects, switching lights and walking beside handicapped equipment such as walkers, wheelchairs and braces. The program provides service dogs at no cost to people of Illinois with special needs.

The Helping Paws Program is a unique partnership between the Illinois Department of Corrections, Illinois Correctional Industries, Lake Land College and Morris Service Dogs, which is the service organization that places the dogs with recipients. Currently, 112 dogs have completed the training program and have gone on to become service, therapy, companion, search and rescue, drug detection and hearing dogs.

“Those involved in Helping Paws see firsthand the success of the program,” said IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr. “ Throughout IDOC, there are many opportunities for offenders to give back to communities. Details of these programs teach them invaluable lessons while increasing their self-esteem as they help people.”

Helping Paws is one of many valuable programs offered through Illinois Correctional Industries. Inmates have the opportunity to receive training and certification in various vocations to help them market their skills upon release. Those selected to be service dog trainers are women who will one day be released back into society. The women not only gain marketable skills, but develop a commitment to responsibility, discipline and a strong work ethic. For inmates to qualify for the Helping Paws Program, they must successfully complete Lake Land College’s dog training class. Dog grooming is also another part of the Helping Paws Program.

The dogs, who are typically donated to the program from shelters, pounds and rescue organizations, reside in the same housing unit with their inmate trainers. In addition to the training, the inmate is responsible for the dog’s grooming and daily needs.

Volunteers also play an important role in the program by taking dogs on “Furry Furloughs.” The furloughs allow the dog to socialize in surroundings and situations in the outside world that would not be encountered in a prison setting, such as being around children, traffic, escalators and different sounds. Many citizens, employees and organizations also volunteer through non-monetary donations, such as contributing dog food.

During the final stage of training, the dog is transferred to the Morris Service Dogs Organization, where it is evaluated and matched with a potential recipient. The dog then becomes certified as a service dog and receives additional specialized training based upon the individual’s specific needs.

The impact of Helping Paws extends way beyond the fences of Dwight Correctional Center. Helping Paws is all about second chances. The program helps to save a dog’s life; it provides valuable skills for the inmate; and it helps the recipient of the dog to have a better quality of life.

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Blagojevich administration celebrates National Meth Awareness Day; highlights innovative Meth Prison and Reentry Program

	IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr. (left) is joined by White House Office of National Drug Control Policy Deputy Director Dr. Bertha Madras and other state and local partners to explain the innovative Meth Prison and Reentry Program at Southwestern Illinois Correctional Center and observe National Meth Awareness Day.

White House Office of National Drug Control Policy Deputy Director Dr. Bertha Madras speaks at Southwestern Illinois Correctional Center Event

Governor proclaims today “Meth Prevention Day in Illinois”

SPRINGFIELD–Nov. 30, 2006 - On National Meth Awareness Day, Governor Rod R. Blagojevich’s administration today touted Illinois’ new innovative Meth Prison and Reentry Program. Southwestern Illinois Correctional Center will become a first-of-its-kind national model for reducing crime and recidivism among Meth offenders. Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) Director Roger E. Walker Jr., joined by the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy Deputy Director and other state and local partners, explained the Meth Prison and Reentry Program this morning at the Southwestern Illinois Correctional Center (SWICC) in East St. Louis. The Governor also proclaimed today Meth Prevention Day in Illinois.

“Illinois is a national leader in fighting drugs, crime, and helping addicts turn their lives around,” said Gov. Blagojevich. “Meth is one of the most destructive drugs plaguing our communities. Our Meth Prison and Reentry Initiative at Southwestern Illinois Correctional Center will focus on the very specific challenges facing people addicted to Meth so they can return to their families and communities and lead productive crime-and drug-free lives.”

The Governor announced last week that IDOC officially chose a group of partners and community-based providers to help build a new, cutting-edge model for reducing crime among Meth-involved offenders. Under the Meth Prison Initiative, hundreds of IDOC inmates at SWICC will undergo a newly developed, highly intensive drug treatment and community reentry program to combat Meth addiction and reduce crime.

IDOC and the Illinois Department of Human Services (DHS) joined today at SWICC with nation and state-wide partners to celebrate National Meth Awareness Day for a planning and strategy session where they will continue developing the initiative and exploring successful new ways of treating Meth offenders in the program.

White House Office of National Drug Control Policy Deputy Director Dr. Bertha Madras spoke in recognition of Illinois’ efforts and National Meth Awareness Day.

“It is my great honor and privilege to officially observe the first-ever National Methamphetamine Awareness Day here in East St. Louis, Illinois.  The White House Office of National Drug Control Policy appreciates the dedication of the State of Illinois and the hard work of the Illinois Department of Corrections in combating the deadly scourge of methamphetamine abuse,” said Dr. Madras. “Meth is a serious and highly toxic drug that adversely affects countless American lives and devastates numerous communities.  However, the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy – along with our friends and partners, such as the State of Illinois and the Southwestern Illinois Correctional Center – are making progress against Meth.  Nationally, we have witnessed a 35 percent decrease in youth Meth use in the last 4 years through the implementation of our balanced strategy of prevention, treatment and enforcement.  The State of Illinois is a major part of that successful story, and it is my pleasure to officially recognize their achievements against Meth abuse on National Methamphetamine Awareness Day.”

The Governor’s Meth prison initiative includes creating two Meth units, one at SWICC and one at the Sheridan Correctional Center in LaSalle County.  In Fiscal Year 2007, the Governor will create a 200-bed Meth Unit at the 667-bed Southwestern Illinois Correctional Center and make the entire prison another fully dedicated drug prison and reentry program in the model of Sheridan.  In Fiscal Year 2008, the Governor will expand the Sheridan Correctional Center from 950 offenders to its full capacity of 1,300 offenders, with 200 of those spaces to be used for another Meth Unit.  As with the current Sheridan model, inmates in both programs will not only access intensive prison-based drug treatment programs, vocational training, job preparation and mental health services, but their treatment will continue upon completion of their sentence under a highly supervised transition back to their communities.  The Southwestern program is being supported through $1.9 million in state funding, and $4.78 million in federal funding.

“With this initiative, the Governor has charged our department with finding new and more effective ways to reduce repeat crime among Meth offenders in the prison system, and we are making tremendous progress in meeting this challenge with the first rate partners we have brought on board in recent weeks,” said Director Walker. “This program gives IDOC the opportunity to continue our efforts, similar to the Sheridan project, to develop new and innovative ways to address the impact of drugs on crime and recidivism especially regarding the Meth crisis that plagues so many communities in Central and Southern Illinois.”

Through the Sheridan project, the model established in Illinois is a comprehensive one that focuses on several criminogenic factors including drug treatment, education and job training, mental health, family reunification and full reentry services that are managed by a parole agent and reentry team.  The project has reduced recidivism of the participants by more than 40 percent better than a comparison group. 

 "The treatment program at Southwestern prison help drug offenders recover from their addictions and break the cycle of drugs, crime and poverty," said DHS Secretary Carol Adams. "Inmates at Southwestern will participate in integrated programs including drug treatment, vocational training, education, and closely supervised community reentry. This approach to treatment gives the recovering person the best chance of success."

The program at SWICC will be led by CiviGenics, the nation’s largest correctional treatment company, and will be a national model for therapeutic interventions with this ever-growing segment of the inmate population. There are many myths about methamphetamine, one of which is that no effective treatment for Meth addicts exists.  Another widely-circulated notion has it that once the habit is acquired, the prognosis for methamphetamine users is near hopeless. While this is demonstrably false, it is true that methamphetamine poses some unique treatment challenges which require unique solutions.

“When responding to the Governor’s charge to reach out across the state and the nation to seek model programs for reducing crime among Meth offenders, we learned that there were no recognized model programs for Meth offenders,” said IDOC Assistant Director Deanne Benos. “This has become an exciting challenge for our team here in Illinois. We found that the only nationally recognized Meth treatment program is the Matrix Model in California, and it is an entirely community-based model.  Therefore, our team has reached out and brought the creator of that model, Dr. Rawson, to our design team.” 

“Illinois’ public safety and law enforcement agencies have taken a national lead in developing systemic responses to the unrelenting epidemic of methamphetamines.  The strides in interdiction, apprehension, adjudication and incarceration have been impressive,” said CiviGenics President and CEO Roy Ross.  “Now, with the inauguration of a dedicated Meth Unit at SWICC, the treatment community is contributing innovative strategies of its own that will turn the tide of this fearsome and devastating addiction.  CiviGenics can think of no abler partner than IDOC, nor any better venue than SWICC – an institution wholly devoted to drug treatment – to help assure positive outcomes and to set the pace for future ‘best practice.’”

To ensure that this initiative emerges as a “best practice” model for future programs for the Meth-offender population, IDOC and CiviGenics have retained Dr. Richard Rawson of UCLA and Dr. Kevin Knight of Texas Christian University to lend expert guidance in the processes of clinician training, quality assurance and outcomes measurement.

Dr. Rawson is the primary developer of the Matrix Model and one of the most renowned researchers in the MA field.  As a professorwith Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, and as associate director of UCLA’s prestigious Integrated Substance Abuse Program, Dr. Rawson oversees a portfolio of addiction research ranging from brain imaging studies to clinical trials on pharmacological and psychosocial addiction treatments.  Dr. Knight, as a chief research scientist with the Institute of Behavioral Research, is recognized as a national leader in the development of metrics for therapeutic “best practice” in correctional settings. 

What distinguishes the programs at Sheridan and SWICC from other programs is that it has an extensive focus on community safety and also includes funding for the most highly supervised and supported reentry program in state history. CiviGenics will provide the prison-based drug treatment and is developing the model Meth program. Safer Foundation is providing the prison-based and post release job preparation and placement programming. TASC (Treatment Alternatives for Safe Communities) is providing the prison-based and community clinical case management. Community Support andAdvisory Councils (CSAC) will work with reentering offenders into their neighborhoods.

“In addition, we have found many dedicated community leaders, particularly from Central and Southern Illinois where Meth has hit the hardest, who have offered their suggestions based upon their extensive experience with this population,” Walker said. “Together, we look forward to establishing a new model to curtail the Meth crisis that has devastated so many communities throughout our state and the nation.”

Meth has become a growing crisis in the State of Illinois with prison admissions rising from only 6 in fiscal year 1999 to 421 in fiscal year 2004.  The current prison population for Meth offenders is more than 800 with countless others in prison who are believed to have committed their offense while under the influence of the drug.  

To raise awareness about the problem of Meth and what his administration is doing to address it, the Governor proclaimed November 30, 2006 as Meth Prevention Day. The text of the proclamation follows:

WHEREAS, methamphetamine, or meth, is one of the biggest threats to our rural communities and the families who live in them; and

WHEREAS, meth is a powerful stimulant that affects the central nervous system, and is derived from ephedrine or pseudoephedrine, commonly used in cold medicine; and

WHEREAS, chronic abuse of meth can lead to psychotic behavior, characterized by intense paranoia, hallucinations, and out-of-control rages that can be coupled with extremely violent behavior; and

WHEREAS, the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) reports that approximately 800 offenders in the Department have been incarcerated for meth related crimes; and

WHEREAS, in FY04, Illinois had 490 inmates in prison for meth-related offenses. In FY05, that number jumped to 541 meth-related inmates. Many more inmates may be currently incarcerated for violent or property crimes that were related to a meth addiction; and

WHEREAS, over two years, my administration will create two Meth Units, one at Southwestern Illinois Correctional Center (SWICC) and one at Sheridan. This year, we will create a 200 bed Meth Unit at the 667 bed Southwestern Illinois Correctional Center and make the entire prison another fully dedicated drug prison and reentry program in the model of Sheridan. Next year, we will expand the Sheridan Correctional Center from 950 offenders to its full capacity of 1300 offenders, with 200 of those spaces to be used for another Meth Unit; and

WHEREAS, my administration has charged the IDOC to develop a cutting-edge new model for the nation that will reduce recidivism among meth-addicted offenders, and will be launched at SWICC and then added to Sheridan; and

WHEREAS, inmates at Southwestern and Sheridan will participate in integrated programs including drug treatment, vocational training, education, and closely supervised community reentry; and

WHEREAS, in order to break the cycle of crime and addiction, these Meth Units will enable meth-addicted prisoners to receive treatment, counseling, and job training. Thus, these prisoners will have a better chance of leaving prison without the drug addiction that threatens their lives and our communities:

THEREFORE, I, Rod R. Blagojevich, Governor of the State of Illinois, do hereby proclaim November 30, 2006 asMETH PREVENTION DAYin Illinois.

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Blagojevich Administration moves forward with Governor’s plan to open innovative prison to treat meth addicts and reduce repeat crimes

Administration announces team of expert partners to help develop specialized meth treatment program

IDOC to celebrate National Meth Awareness Day on November 30 th in its development of the Historic Meth Prison and Reentry Program

SPRINGFIELD–Nov. 21, 2006 - Governor Rod R. Blagojevich’s innovative Meth Prison and Reentry Program is moving forward toward its goal of becoming a first-of-its-kind national model for reducing crime and recidivism among meth offenders. Today, the Governor announced that the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) officially chose a group of partners and community-based providers to help build a new, cutting-edge model for reducing crime among meth-involved offenders. Under the Meth Prison Initiative, hundreds of IDOC inmates at Southwestern Illinois Correctional Center will undergo a newly developed, highly intensive drug treatment and community reentry program to combat meth addiction and reduce crime.

“Illinois is a national leader in fighting drug use, crime, and helping addicts turn their lives around. We want to take the lessons we’ve learned and apply them to one of the fastest-growing and most destructive drug scourges plaguing our communities: methamphetamine addiction,” said Gov. Blagojevich. “The Meth Prison and Reentry Initiative at Southwestern Illinois Correctional Center will focus on the very specific challenges facing people addicted to meth, so they can return to their families and communities and lead productive crime-and drug-free lives.”

IDOC also will join partners from across the state to celebrate National Meth Awareness Day on November 30th at Southwestern Illinois Correctional Center (SWICC) for a planning and strategy session where they will continue developing the initiative and exploring successful new ways of treating meth offenders in the program.

The program at SWICC will be led by CiviGenics, the nation’s largest correctional treatment company, and will be a national model for therapeutic interventions with this ever-growing segment of the inmate population. There are many myths about methamphetamine, one of which is that no effective treatment for meth addicts exists.  Another widely-circulated notion is that once the habit is acquired, the prognosis for methamphetamine users is near to hopeless.   While this is demonstrably false, it is true that methamphetamine poses some unique treatment challenges which require unique solutions.

The SWICC methamphetamine program relies on established protocols common to other cognitive therapies for stimulant-use disordered adults. But it adapts them to the case histories and symptomatology of persons whose methamphetamine addiction, or “MA,” has led to a spiraling collapse of social function.  And it incorporates findings from the latest research on the neurological impairments caused by MA.

To assure that this initiative emerges as a “best practice” model for future programs for the meth-offender population, IDOC and CiviGenics have retained Dr. Richard Rawson of UCLA, and Dr. Kevin Knight of Texas Christian University to lend expert guidance in the processes of clinician training, Quality Assurance, and outcomes measurement.

Dr. Rawson is the primary developer of the Matrix Model and one of the most renowned researchers in the MA field.  As a Professor with Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, and as Associate Director of UCLA’s prestigious Integrated Substance Abuse Program, Dr. Rawson oversees a portfolio of addiction research ranging from brain imaging studies to clinical trials on pharmacological and psychosocial addiction treatments.  Dr. Knight, as a chief Research Scientist with the Institute of Behavioral Research, is recognized as a national leader in the development of metrics for therapeutic “best practice” in correctional settings.   

The Governor’s Meth prison initiative includes creating two Meth units, one at SWICC and one at the Sheridan Correctional Center in LaSalle County.  In Fiscal Year 2007, the Governor will create a 200-bed Meth Unit at the 667-bed Southwestern Illinois Correctional Center and make the entire prison another fully dedicated drug prison and reentry program in the model of Sheridan.  In Fiscal Year 2008, the Governor will expand the Sheridan Correctional Center from 950 offenders to its full capacity of 1,300 offenders, with 200 of those spaces to be used for another Meth Unit.  As with the current Sheridan model, inmates in both programs will not only access intensive prison-based drug treatment programs, vocational training, job preparation and mental health services, but their treatment will continue upon completion of their sentence under a highly supervised transition back to their communities.  The Southwestern program is being supported through $1.9 million state funding, and $4.78 million federal funding.

“With this initiative, the Governor has charged our department with finding new and more effective ways to reduce repeat crime among meth offenders in the prison system, and we are making tremendous progress in meeting this challenge with the first rate partners we have brought on board in recent weeks,” said IDOC Director Roger Walker. “This program gives IDOC the opportunity to continue our efforts, similar to the Sheridan project, to develop new and innovative ways to address the impact of drugs on crime and recidivism especially regarding the Meth crisis that plagues so many communities in Central and Southern Illinois.”

What distinguishes the programs at Sheridan and SWICC from other programs is that they have an extensive focus on community safety and also includes funding for the most highly supervised and supported reentry program in state history. This program not only includes specially-trained parole agents to monitor participants, but funding for drug treatment, mental health, housing and job placement services all designed to reduce the parolees’ risk to their communities and move them toward crime-free and drug-free citizenship. So far, more than 30 community providers throughout the state will be helping to provide those services.

Today, the IDOC announced that the following providers are now officially on board to build the meth prison and reentry program: Civigenics, Safer Foundation, and TASC (Treatment Alternatives for Safe Communities).

CiviGenics is partnering with the Illinois Department of Corrections in developing an intensive, offender-specific treatment model that targets methamphetamine abusing offenders at the SWICC.   Working with Dr. Richard Rawson, the originator of the only evidence-based model for treatment of methamphetamine abuse, called the “Matrix Model,” CiviGenics is creating a groundbreaking new system to reach meth abusers in the criminal justice population who sustain significant neurological damage as a result of their use.  The model integrates research from a variety of disciplines, including neuropsychiatry and educational models.

CiviGenics will work with community partners identified by the IDOC in creating a broad-based statewide initiative that incorporates the “best of the best” research, practice and service delivery.

• CiviGenicswas awarded the prison-based drug treatment contract, which includes the development of the national model Meth unit and reentry funding. Additionally, CiviGenics is updating the entire program standards at SWICC. CiviGenics is the nation’s largest correctional treatment company, providing in-prison substance abuse programs in 16 states. The hallmark of CiviGenics’ programs is innovation, using evidence-based practices supported by partnerships with the nation’s foremost researchers. CiviGenics has provided offender substance abuse treatment services for IDOC since 1996.

“CiviGenics is proud to be selected as Illinois’ partner in pioneering a national model prison program to combat Methamphetamine addiction,” said CiviGenics Chief Executive Officer Roy Ross. “We are excited to be part of the Governor’s multi-pronged initiative to combat Methamphetamine through treatment and public safety legislation. Our innovative Methamphetamine treatment program at the Southwestern Illinois Correctional Center, coupled with Illinois’ new statewide parolee re-entry initiative, represents an extraordinary opportunity to create real progress in reducing recidivism in Illinois.”

• Safer Foundationwas awarded the prison- and community-based job preparation and placement contract for offenders at the prison. Safer is also the contractor providing the nationally recognized services at Sheridan Correctional Center, which has resulted in significantly higher job placement rates for that program. Safer has worked for more than 30 years to reduce recidivism by helping people with criminal records obtain employment and social services. In January 2004, Safer was selected as one of three providers of evidenced-based prison reentry services to support drug addicted individuals at the Sheridan Correctional facility. The facility provides training in the employment growth sectors where research has shown an increased demand for laborers both now and into the immediate future. This training includes computer, warehousing, welding, machining, carpentry, culinary and barber skills. In addition, Lakeland Community College (LLC) will be providing a college associate degree program, a horticulture/turf maintenance program, computer programming, construction occupations management, custodial maintenance program, and food safety and sanitation.

“We believe the continuation and expansion of the work started at Sheridan Correctional Center will prove to be as beneficial to the clients of Southwestern as it has been for the residents at Sheridan,” said Safer Foundation President and Chief Executive Officer Diane Williams. “We are grateful and honored to have an opportunity to support the Governor in his efforts to fight Meth consumption in Illinois.”

• TASCwas awarded the clinical case management contract to oversee the reentry of participants in the program. It also currently manages that portion of the nationally recognized program at Sheridan. TASC is an independent, statewide, nonprofit agency that helps people obtain drug treatment or other services in the community. Since its inception in 1976, TASC has advocated on behalf of clients and improved systems of care. TASC services touch nearly 35,000 clients each year. TASC provides clinical reentry case management services for men entering and leaving the SWICC.  Clinical reentry management services bridge the transition from community to prison.  Services begin upon entry into the facility and continue as the inmate is released into the community.

“What makes this program exceptional is its attention to what happens to offenders after their release,” said TASC President Melody M. Heaps. “By engaging community participation and resources throughout, Sheridan recognizes that real rehabilitation takes root in the communities to which individuals return. From treatment to housing to employment opportunities to faith-based support, the program provides access to services that the formerly incarcerated need to overcome addictions and restore themselves to full citizenship. Communities, families and individuals alike benefit from the hope that personal responsibility and positive change can bring.”

To help build the capacity of communities to support the safe reentry of parolees from the program, the SWICC Meth Project gives IDOC the opportunity to fund three additional Community Support and Advisory Councils (CSAC) modeled after a successful pilot project established by the original Sheridan program on the south and west sides of Chicago. The CSAC model builds community-based networks of stakeholders in high-impact communities with the largest populations of reentering ex-offenders from prison. IDOC is also finalizing the CSAC contract for Decatur ( Macon County) with Jesus Cares Outreach, Inc.

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Illinois Department of Corrections graduates54cadets from the training academy

SPRINGFIELD, IL – Nov. 17, 2006 - Governor Rod R. Blagojevich today announced the graduation of 54 correctional officer cadets, who completed a six-week, paramilitary training course at the Illinois Department of Corrections training academy in Springfield. On behalf of the Governor, IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr. congratulated the new correctional officers during a graduation ceremony held at the agency’s General Headquarters.   

“These new officers will make sure our prisons are safe and secure,” said Gov Blagojevich. “I congratulate these new officers and wish them luck as they begin their new careers in public safety.”

“It’s a pleasure and an honor to see this fine group of cadets graduate today,” said Director Walker.  “On behalf of Gov. Blagojevich, I commend their dedication and achievements.  The department's emphasis is placed on front line staff to protect and control inmates. These new officers will help carry our mission of running safe and secure prisons. Safety is at the forefront of the agency's operations.”

The six-week course is a 240-hour Pre-Service Security Training program.  The cadets undergo a regimen of training sessions that include employee ethics, professionalism, firearms, control tactics, fire emergency, search procedures, discipline and report writing, radio communications, drug awareness, training exercises and exams.

Another class of 61 cadets graduated in mid-October.

Since the beginning of his administration, the Governor has worked to improve the Illinois prison system, and is committed to enhancing prison-based treatment, prevention programs and the successful reentry of inmates into society.

The Governor’s most recent reentry initiative is to develop a national model Meth prison and reentry program.  The initiative includes creating two Meth units, one at Southwestern Illinois Correctional Center and one at Sheridan.  In fiscal year 2007, the Governor will create a 200-bed Meth Unit at the 667-bed Southwestern Illinois Correctional Center and make the entire prison another fully dedicated drug prison and reentry program in the model of Sheridan. 

Next year, the Governor will expand the Sheridan Correctional Center from 950 offenders to its full capacity of 1,300 offenders, with 200 of those spaces to be used for another Meth unit.  As with the current Sheridan model, inmates in both programs will not only access intensive prison- based drug treatment programs, vocational training, job preparation and mental health services, but their treatment will continue upon completion of their sentence under a highly supervised transition back to their communities.

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Illinois Department of Corrections to increase monitoring ofparoled sex offenders on Halloween 

SPRINGFIELD - Oct. 27, 2006 - With Halloween approaching, the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) is increasing its surveillance of paroled sex offenders on Halloween in a program entitled Operation Safe Spirits. For the second year, the agency will be working with local law enforcement throughout the state in the monitoring of sex offenders on Halloween.

“The Illinois Department of Corrections is serious about monitoring sex offenders,” said IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr. “The agency is dedicated to improving public safety and helping to ensure families have a safe and enjoyable Halloween.”

Walker stated that on Halloween and throughout the year, IDOC will continue its efforts to improve community safety through Governor Blagojevich’s Sex Offender Initiative, which includes a specially trained sex offender supervision unit to highly supervise sex offenders on parole and through the building of partnerships statewide to improve the safety of all families in Illinois.

On the days leading up to and on Halloween, IDOC will be conducting face-to-face contacts and spot checks with the state’s 1,100 paroled sex offenders. All paroled sex offenders are on electronic or GPS (Global Positioning System) monitoring and have been served with requirements of their parole. Conditions include that they do not go outside on Halloween, dress in costume, have their porch lights on or pass out candy to trick-or-treaters. Paroled sex offenders not meeting these conditions could be returned to prison.

Recent laws signed into legislation have tightened restriction of sex offenders. House Bill 121, which went into effect in July 2005, prevents sex offenders from preying on children during the holidays. The law provides that as a condition of probation, conditional discharge, parole, or mandatory supervised release, a sex offender may not participate in a holiday event involving children under 18 years of age, such as handing out candy on Halloween, wearing a Santa Claus costume on or preceding Christmas, being employed as a department store Santa Claus, or wearing an Easter Bunny costume on or preceding Easter.

“Public safety is at the forefront of the agency’s operations in the monitoring and supervision of paroled sex offenders. However, it is still important for all parents to educate themselves with information regarding the locations of registered sex offenders,” Walker said.

The Illinois State Police sex offender registry is available online atwww.isp.state.il.us.

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Gov. Blagojevich announces the graduation of 61 correctional officer cadets from the Illinois Department of Corrections training academy

Another new class of 54 cadets to graduate mid-November  

SPRINGFIELD– Oct. 20, 2006 - Governor Rod R. Blagojevich today announced the graduation of 61 correctional officer cadets, who completed a six-week, paramilitary training course at the Illinois Department of Corrections training academy in Springfield. On behalf of the Governor, IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr. congratulated the 61 new correctional officers during a graduation ceremony held at the agency’s General Headquarters.   

“These new officers will help improve our prison system. With the training they just completed, they will be better prepared to keep our correctional facilities safe and secure,” said Gov. Blagojevich.

“It’s a pleasure and an honor to see this fine group of cadets graduate today,” said Director Walker.  “On behalf of Gov. Blagojevich, I commend their dedication and achievements.  These new officers will carry on this administration’s focus of running safe and secure prisons, and the state will continue to grow front line staff to protect and control inmates.”

The six-week course is a 240-hour Pre-Service Security Training program.  The cadets undergo a regimen of training sessions that include employee ethics, professionalism, firearms, control tactics, fire emergency, search procedures, discipline and report writing, radio communications, drug awareness, training exercises and exams.

Since the beginning of his administration, the Governor has worked to improve the Illinois prison system, and is committed to enhancing prison-based treatment, prevention programs and the successful reentry of inmates into society.

The Governor’s most recent reentry initiative is to develop a national model Meth prison and reentry program .  The initiative includes creating two Meth units, one at Southwestern Illinois Correctional Center and one at Sheridan.  In fiscal year 2007, the Governor will create a 200-bed Meth Unit at the 667-bed Southwestern Illinois Correctional Center and make the entire prison another fully dedicated drug prison and reentry program in the model of Sheridan. 

Next year, the Governor will expand the Sheridan Correctional Center from 950 offenders to its full capacity of 1,300 offenders, with 200 of those spaces to be used for another Meth unit.  As with the current Sheridan model, inmates in both programs will not only access intensive prison- based drug treatment programs, vocational training, job preparation and mental health services, but their treatment will continue upon completion of their sentence under a highly supervised transition back to their communities.

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Gov. Blagojevich announces federal grant to support state’s efforts to reduce recidivism

$450,000 from U.S. Dept. of Justice supports Blagojevich Administration’s efforts to help keep released offenders from returning to life of crime

SPRINGFIELD - Oct. 12, 2006 - Governor Rod R. Blagojevich today announced that the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) will receive $450,000 from the U.S. Department of Justice to help prepare inmates for life after prison. Illinois is one of 20 states to receive awards to provide programs to help keep released inmates from returning to prison.

The grant will fund a two-year program that will allow IDOC to provide more pre-release programming and case management to inmates participating in the Safer Foundation's Ready4Work program. The Safer Foundation helps inmates find and keep jobs after their release and also provides inmates with additional programs and services such as housing, substance abuse treatment, education, and life skills.

“We need to do everything we can to help men and women who are in prison develop the skills they need to stay away from drugs, find jobs, rebuild their lives and become productive members of society when they are released. Our programs are among the most aggressive in state history aimed at reducing recidivism. This grant for the Safer Foundation supports our ongoing efforts to help inmates find a place in their communities, and avoid the very same mistakes that sent them to prison,” said Gov. Blagojevich.

“Addressing the issue of recidivism is about improving public safety and the quality of life in Illinois communities,” said IDOC Director Roger E. Walker, Jr. “While these are long-term challenges, the Illinois Department of Corrections is proud to be a part of Governor Blagojevich’s historic efforts to seek solutions and make meaningful and effective reforms that will make Illinois families safer. Because of the Governor’s reentry initiatives, inmates and parolees now have more opportunities to make a successful crime and drug-free reentry into society than ever before.”

Safer’s first three years of Ready4Work yielded outstanding results. Of the 430 participants who were part of Ready4Work, less than 10 percent recidivated and 69 percent achieved employment, with 67 percent achieving 30-day employment retention. Safer’s recidivism study shows that when participants achieve 30-day retention, they see a 67 percent decline in the three-year recidivism rate against the statewide recidivism rate.

Safer’s Ready4Work partners include Trinity United Church of Christ, St. Sabina Community of Faith, People’s Church of the Harvest C.O.G.I.C., Ambassadors for Christ, Mt. Vernon Baptist Church, Chicago Project for Violence Prevention (all Chicago), Vision of Restoration (Maywood), and Valley Kingdom Ministries (South Suburbs).

“This issue does not only affect those in prison and their families,” said Safer Foundation President and CEO Diane Williams. “It does not only affect the communities to which they return. Decreasing recidivism and increasing job placement for people with criminal records provides all of us with a safer and more productive society. A major part of the strategy to support people returning from prison must be to ensure that those communities most impacted by reentry get the resources and opportunities to support reentry.”

In another effort to reduce recidivism, the Governor’s Fiscal Year 2007 Budget funds the creation of a specialized 200-bed treatment unit for inmates with meth addictions at the 667-bed Southwestern Illinois Correctional Center. The new unit, which will receive $1.9 million from the state and $4.78 million from the federal government, will be modeled after the Sheridan National Model Drug Prison & Reentry program that has shown tremendous success, with a re-incarceration rate that is nearly 50 percent lower than other groups. The FY 07 budget also includes $5.7 million enabling the Department of Corrections to increase programming in support of parolee reentry, including interview skills and transitional employment.

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IDOC completes cleanup restoration project followingJuly 21 storms 

Disaster recovery project one of the longest in IDOC history

September 19, 2006 - The Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) staff and inmate work crews logged in nearly 33,000 hours helping communities clean up and recover from the July 21 severe storms that swept through central and southern Illinois. In addition to cleanup efforts, IDOC responded to an urgent request for drinking water. Illinois Correctional Industries produced and delivered 85,000 individual containers and 300 five-gallon containers of drinking water to Metro East locations following the storm.

“I commend the leadership and professionalism of IDOC employees who are called out on a moment’s notice to organize, coordinate and supervise work details when disaster strikes communities,” said IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr. “Supporting communities in their time of need is an important mission of the agency. IDOC is well represented by these employees who display pride and professionalism in completing this mission. When IDOC is called upon to provide service, the state can be assured that we will be there.”

Staff and inmate work crews were deployed to Jefferson, Washington, Clinton, St. Clair and Madison counties from the DuQuoin Impact Incarceration Program as well as Vandalia, Southwestern, Green County work camps and Menard Minimum Security Unit.

“IDOC staff and inmates work worked side-by-side with other government agencies and civilians in providing disaster relief,” said Mike McKinney, assistant warden of operations at Jacksonville Correctional Center, who also serves as IDOC liaison to the Illinois Emergency Management Agency. “The work crews served in the cleanup project from July 24 to Sept. 8, which is the longest disaster recovery undertaken by IDOC in history, not including flood response.”

In early April, IDOC staff and inmate work crews logged nearly 11,000 hours helping communities clean up and recover after two tornadoes swept through Springfield and high winds and strong storms wreaked havoc on the region.

“The goal of supporting communities through public service projects also provides inmates a structured, specialized agenda that develops responsibility, self-discipline, self-respect and the importance of a good work ethic,” said Walker. “Their willingness to get involved in community service enhances the ability of the offender to reintegrate into society and live as a responsible, law-abiding and productive citizen. The use of staff and inmate work crews assisting with emergency relief projects is also a valuable asset to the taxpayer as well as those affected by devastating disasters.”

In addition to responding to emergencies relief efforts, IDOC staff and inmate work crews help beautify Illinois communities by cleaning up highways, parks, fairs and celebrations. At the Illinois State Fair, IDOC staff and inmate work crews plant and maintain flowers on the grounds—a beautification project highly praised by the citizens of Illinois.

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IDOC and LSSI continue to help support recovery effortson the Gulf Coast

SPRINGFIELD – Sept. 12, 2006 - Collaboration continues with the efforts in Shreveport, La., to build housing for families who had their homes on the Gulf Coast destroyed by last year's hurricanes. The collaboration is between Building Homes: Rebuilding Lives, a program of Lutheran Social Services of Illinois (LSSI), the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) and IDOC School District 428.

Beginning Sept. 18, the Fuller Center for Housing, Shreveport-Bossier Community Renewal and Northwest Louisiana Habitat for Humanity will begin a "Blitz-Build" of 10 new homes.  The "Blitz-Build" project involves the completion of house exteriors in one week.  Exterior and interior walls for eight of the houses have been constructed by IDOC facilities.

On Sept. 9, two sets of walls that were built at Hardin County Work Camp arrived at Shreveport.   During the week of Sept. 11-17, two sets of walls from Dixon Correctional Center, two sets of walls from Big Muddy River Correctional Center and two additional sets of walls from Hardin County Work Camp will arrive in Shreveport. 

“We are proud to partner with Lutheran Social Services of Illinois in the Building Homes: Rebuilding Lives Program,” said IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr. “Reentry management is a major goal of Governor Rod R. Blagojevich and the Illinois Department of Corrections. The Building Homes:Rebuilding Lives Program serves as an important component in the reentry management of inmates and also brings hope and dignity to communities through the building of Habitat for Humanity homes. Today inmates are given more opportunities for successful reentry into society than ever before through such rehabilitative programs and our commitment to reentry management.”

“LSSI’s Building Homes: Rebuilding Lives program fosters the philosophy of restorative justice by offering inmates, both youth and adults, the opportunity to give back to the community,” said Jane Otte, executive director of LSSI’s Prisoner and Family Ministry. “ In the process, inmates gain valuable trade skills and a sense of self-worth that will hopefully help them move forward in a positive direction after their release from prison. This kind of partnership not only increases the production within the prisons, but also expands the giving opportunity for the incarcerated. They become a part of the great store of people in the U.S. who are responding to the cry for help on the Gulf Coast. Prisoners can give to people in need far beyond Illinois. Their world view and their generous response grow at the same time, which helps to move them forward in a positive direction after their release from prison.”

Since 1995, the Building Homes: Rebuilding Lives program has involved more than 2,500 prison inmates. Currently, the prisoners annually contribute more than 14,000 hours of volunteer labor in the creation of housing components. Materials that are paid for by LSSI, Habitat for Humanity affiliates, and other not-for-profit organizations are used in the construction classes to build housing components.

Throughout IDOC, there are many opportunities for offenders to give back to communities. Details of these programs teach them invaluable lessons while increasing their self-esteem as they help people.

“The Governor and I are committed to enhancing the successful reentry of offenders into society through rehabilitative programs and services,” said Walker. “Reaching out and helping those in communities that have helped and assisted them in many ways, offers countless rewards to everyone involved. Such programs not only benefit our communities and help offenders return to society, but also serve as a valuable asset to the taxpayer.”

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Illinois Department of Corrections cadet training class begins

Sixty-two correctional officer cadets to take six-week training course

SPRINGFIELD, IL - Sept. 11, 2006 - The Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) announced today that 62 correctional officer cadets will begin a six-week paramilitary training course Monday, September 11 at the agency’s training academy in Springfield. The new group of cadets will increase IDOC’s front line staffing. This class is the second training course conducted this year for correctional officer cadets.

“The department’s intensive training is equipped to meet the mission of the agency,” said IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr. “ Safety is at the forefront of the agency’s operations. The department’s emphasis is placed on front line staff to protect and control inmates. We look forward to having these new cadets join our professional staff at our prisons. We applaud the Governor and the legislature for approving these new hires in their budget making process.”

The six-week course is a 240-hour Pre-Service Security Training program. The cadets will undergo a regimen of training sessions that include employee ethics, professionalism, firearms, control tactics, fire emergency, search procedures, discipline and report writing, radio communication, drug awareness, training exercises and exams.

Upon certification of the training, the new correctional officers will report to various IDOC facilities throughout the state.

The last correctional officer class graduated 111 officers on August 4. There were 108 cadets that graduated in January of 2005. IDOC is planning another correctional officer cadet class for October.

For more information regarding the application process, visit the Illinois Department of Corrections website atwww.idoc.state.il.usor call 217-558-2200 ext. 2100.

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