On May 5, 1984, Ronald Reagan, the 40th President of the United States, delivered a proclamation that designated the first week in May as National Correctional Officers Week. The importance of all staff members who serve in the field of corrections cannot be overstated because each has an important role, whether civilian or security staff. Those who serve in corrections can easily identify with the depth and spirit found in the context of the 40-year-old proclamation. The President, and possibly the nation, began to recognize that those who work in corrections are not simply “guards,” but trained professionals. In the following pages, we share some of the ways in which National Correctional Officers and Employees Week was observed in 2024.
Broward Sheriff's Office Department of Detention
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
National Correctional Officers Appreciation Week at the Broward Sheriff's Office kickstarted with two events that recognized the unwavering dedication of the men and women in the field of corrections in the South Florida area. These events were open to all employees (civilian, sworn, contracted vendors, etc.) and family members, the latter of which are a pivotal extension of our employees, making it vitally important to celebrate them as well.
The first event was the Wild West Skate Night, in which BSO and the Miami-Dade Corrections and Rehabilitation Department enjoyed a night of skating, line-dancing, and laughs.
The second event featured a Multi-Jurisdiction Bowling Event. The Broward's Sheriff's Office, Federal Bureau of Prisons, Miami-Dade, and Palm Beach County enjoyed an evening of competitive bowling and fun.
Hernando County Sheriff's Office Detention Center
Brooksville, Florida
The Hernando County Sheriff's Office had the opportunity to shine a spotlight on the heroes during Corrections and Nurses Week. The Hernando County Detention Center employees were provided the much-needed appreciation for always going beyond the call of duty to continue the protection and order that happens daily. The week was filled with laughter, thank you from team member to team member, and full stomachs.
Local businesses and vendors partnered together to give the staff a week full of delicious meals and give away prizes. We would like to sincerely express our appreciation and gratitude to the following businesses: Smart Communications, Keefe, Dunkin Donuts, Dirty Dogs Car Wash, 1st Choice Pharmacy, Walmart Supercenter, Party City, Chick-Fil-A, Guardian RFID, Texas Roadhouse, and House of Sugar. A special recognition goes to the Bar-B-Que Master, Sergeant Gray Wisgarda, who dedicated his time away from his family to smoke pork loins through the night to provide a delicious barbecue lunch to the staff.
We would also like to thank Sergeant Brad Collito and Sergeant Philip Digaetano for kicking the week off by preparing tacos on Sunday evening. Also, our very own employee benefit fund drew names daily to show just how much everyone is appreciated for the dedication and hard work each individual puts in to protect our communities. Thank you!
Jackson County Detention Center
Kansas City, Missouri
The Jackson County Detention Center celebrated National Correctional Officers Week with staff picnics at a local park. Several employees were presented with formal awards.
Please join me in congratulating this year's Correctional Employees Week awardees! (See photo captions)
These individuals were nominated by their peers and supervisors for their hard work and efforts to make us a great team.
Additionally, every May, Jackson County partners with federal and local authorities to celebrate Public Employees Recognition Day, a joint celebration where employees are nominated and awarded in a host of categories that celebrate stellar service, dedication to duty, and service to the community.
Thank you all so much for your efforts this week and throughout the year!
Louisville Metro Department of Corrections
Louisville, Kentucky
In addition to daily small appreciation treats, we had a cookout and a dunk tank for some of the senior staff members that readily got wet on a cold day in order to raise more funds for future employee recognition events.
Osceola County Corrections Department
Kissimmee, Florida
At the Osceola County Corrections Department in Kissimmee, Florida, we spent National Correctional Officers Week showing our staff just how much they are appreciated. Staff were treated to a luncheon served by their command staff and presented with a gift to commemorate the occasion. We also encouraged staff to participate in "spirit week" activities throughout the week, such as sneaker day and baseball cap day. Raffle prizes were given out randomly through the week as well.
New York City Department of Corrections
New York City, New York
The New York City Department of Corrections' celebration of National Correctional Officers and Employees Week (COEW) included a special ceremony just near the Samuel L. Perry Center on Rikers Island on May 10 to pay tribute to DOC's heroes.
With leadership from DOC Commissioner Lynelle Maginley-Liddie, officials dedicated a wreath to the Department's 9/11 Memorial to honor the life and memory of our fallen heroes.
"The brave men and women from the New York City Department of Corrections served alongside our fellow first responders from the police and fire departments, displaying unwavering courage and dedication. They helped to evacuate New Yorkers, and they went to work establishing communications at the site among the unimaginable devastation. DOC was there and that can never be forgotten," said Commissioner Maginley-Liddie.
Following the commemoration, on behalf of Mayor Eric Adams, Chief Agency Liaison for the Deputy Mayor of Public Safety Horace Norville, presented a proclamation to the Department. The special presentation also officially established the first full week in May as Correctional Officers and Employees Week in New York City.
In addition, several units in the Department were honored with citations for their exceptional public service to New Yorkers.
"As correction officers and DOC employees, all of you work tirelessly to ensure the care and custody of all those in our jails. The safety of all those who live and work here is your responsibility, and I know how hard you work to accomplish our mission on every tour," the Commissioner added. "To all the uniformed members, administrative staff, and leadership: thank you. Your commitment to the Department does not go unnoticed."
The celebration also featured health screenings for members, lots of DOC family camaraderie, and more in honor of COEW.
Shelby County Sheriff's Office
Columbiana, Alabama
To show our appreciation to the Shelby County Jail Deputies, we celebrated by giving out over 65 door prizes donated by various local businesses. On Thursday, our jail deputies were treated to a Taco Truck to remind them that they truly are "Nacho Average Jail Deputies."
Orange County Corrections Department
Orlando, Florida
National Correctional Officers and Employees Week didn't pass Orange County Corrections Department without fanfare. The theme for the week was "A Tribute to our Hidden Heroes."
Each day had a different motif. There was Tropical Day, followed by Cultural Day. Rounding out the week were Camo Day, Superhero Day, and Decades Day. Non-uniformed staff had the opportunity to dress down each day and uniformed staff enjoyed some themed modifications to their attire.
Throughout the week, there were special menus and free popcorn at Staff Dining.
On May 7th, the Department was recognized with a proclamation at the meeting of the Board of County Commissioners. The proclamation served as the official declaration of National Correctional Officers and Employees Week.
There were random gift card drawings, a Staff Wellness Fair, and a therapy dog even roamed the jail compound.
A highlight came on May 9th with the third annual Bowling Challenge. Pitted against neighboring counties, our team took top honors for the third consecutive year.
Prince William-Manassas Regional Adult Detention Center
Manassas, Virginia
The Prince William-Manassas Regional Adult Detention Center (PWMRADC) Employee Association hosted breakfast and lunch throughout the week for all staff to enjoy along with a 50/50 raffle and a drawing for a set of Beats Studio Pro Headphones.
Shelby County Division of Corrections
Memphis, Tennessee
Tuesday, May 7th and Wednesday, May 8th were Employee Appreciation Days. Our awesome administration team led by Director Anthony Alexander and Deputy Director Patricia Booker served our employees a delicious meal. The menu included chopped BBQ (pork and chicken), BBQ nachos, baked beans, coleslaw, potato chips, Mempops, and assorted beverages.
Thursday, May 9th was Throwback Thursday games and giveaways. Our employees enjoyed games like musical chairs and SCDC Trivial Pursuit, giveaways where 15 employees won TBT prizes, a Selfie Memphis Photo Booth, and a comedy show. Refreshments were served, and employees enjoyed pepperoni pizza bites, smoked sausages, coleslaw, popcorn, cookies, and assorted beverages.
Friday, May 10th was our Annual Memorial Service. We honored our fallen corrections professionals and remembered their sacrifice.
Saturday, May 11th was our Family and Friends Picnic at Shelby Farms Park, the Tour de Wolf Pavilion. Activities included music with DJ Robert Webb, an inflatable obstacle course, a bounce house, Connect 4, Jenga, volleyball, Checkers, Dominoes, horseshoes, corn hole, and card games. The menu featured hamburgers, veggie burgers, hotdogs, smoked sausages, Polska Kielbasa, bologna, coleslaw, potato chips, ice cream, and assorted beverages.
We had a blast celebrating National Corrections Professionals Week this year!
Travis County Sheriff's Office
Austin, Texas
Deep in the heart of Texas stands Travis County, where behind the razor wire and steel doors, a dedicated team of professionals works tirelessly to maintain safety and good order. In their vital but frequently unseen role, correctional professionals are the unsung heroes of the justice system. To acknowledge their invaluable contributions, TCSO went above and beyond to celebrate National Correctional Officer Week in 2024, creating a week-long extravaganza filled with gratitude, camaraderie, and fun.
Every day of the commemorative week, TCSO showed its appreciation through activities designed to bring fun. It all kicked off with a "Goodie Bag Day" on Monday. Each staff member received a gift, which included a heart felt tag expressing gratitude for their hard work and dedication.
Tuesday brought a feast fit for a small army. Over 1200 meals were cooked and delivered to staff. The logistical effort involved in preparing and delivering so many meals was a feat, showcasing the dedication of the organizers.
Wednesday's highlight was undoubtedly the carnival. Yes, carnival! Staff enjoyed a dunking booth, video games, inflatable game house, and massages. Corrections command staff and the majors from the law enforcement and administrative support bureaus volunteered to take their turns in the dunking booth. Their willingness to join the fun and get soaked for their colleagues was a hit.
On Thursday, employee names were drawn for a variety of gifts. Most of the winners were surprised with personal deliveries during their briefings.
The week culminated in "Car Wash Fun Friday." Winners' cars were hand-washed by their colleagues while they enjoyed their favorite non-alcoholic drinks and snacks
That same week, TCSO officers showcased their expertise and knowledge, participating in the Texas Commission on Jail Standards' Courtroom Challenge, a statewide competition hosted by the Texas Jail Association. This highly competitive, fast-paced event, now called "Quick Draw," modeled after the Jeopardy! TV show, tests participants' knowledge of jail minimum standards. The team from TCSO performed admirably, securing a well-deserved second-place finish.
National Correctional Officer Week will be remembered by all who participated as a testament to the power of gratitude and recognition in the workplace.
Walton County Sheriff's Office
DeFuniak Springs, Florida
The first week of May is dedicated to honoring correctional officers and corrections employees each year. This year, National Nurses Day coincided with the celebrations that week, prompting the Walton County Sheriff's Office to establish an Employee Appreciation Team to ensure the 2024 celebration was the best yet.
A customized "Thank You" banner was prominently displayed at the entrance of the Sheriff's Office complex to promote the recognition of this week.
Each day, the staff was treated to breakfast, lunch, and dinner prepared by the command staff at the Walton County Detention Facility.
Breakfast was served daily at 4:30 AM to accommodate both the incoming day shift and the outgoing night shift, allowing employees to either sit down for a meal or grab a plate to go. Service continued until 8:30 AM to ensure all employees had the opportunity to enjoy the meal, which included fried and scrambled eggs, grits, biscuits, and patty sausage.
To ensure all employees were served different meals daily, the lunch and dinner options were rotated. One meal featured a salad and taco bar, complete with all the essentials, including cheese, sour cream, croutons, lettuce, tomato, salsa, and salad dressing. This meal was provided by the Hurricane Oyster Bar and Grill located in Grayton Beach, FL. The other meal included pulled BBQ pork, baked potatoes, coleslaw, and potato salad, provided by Sweet Southern Comfort in DeFuniak Springs. Additionally, Kasi's Kreations provided cheesecake for dessert. These meals were a huge hit with the staff. Overall, the employees enjoyed the food and, most importantly, the opportunity to fellowship with their colleagues and command staff.
We were very thankful to local businesses for showing their support by donating 81 gift cards and other items for an employee drawing. The items included 28 gift baskets, 44 gift cards, 5 sets of custom corn-hole boards featuring our agency logo provided by the Walton County Department of Corrections woodworking program, and 5 fishing charter trips. We organized a virtual meeting to ensure all staff could attend, even if they were not physically at work. The staff really enjoyed the drawings and appreciated the extra effort made by the Employee Appreciation Team to secure the donated gifts. Each employee received a gift bag that included snacks. ViaPath, our inmate communications system, and Stewart, our commissary vendor, collaborated to provide snacks and other donations to help us celebrate our employees.
The WSCO Jail Division vision is "a team of professionals committed to protecting the public, maintaining order, and building better people." It is up to us to acknowledge our achievements, support one another and shine a positive light on our profession.
