In May 1984, President Ronald Reagan issued a proclamation recognizing the dedication, professionalism, and vital contributions of correctional officers and staff. Decades later, the first week of May remains an important opportunity to celebrate the commitment, resilience, and service of those who work in corrections, both civilian and security personnel. This annual recognition reminds us that correctional professionals are far more than “guards”; they are highly trained public servants who help maintain safety, order, accountability, and justice every day.
As you flip through the following pages, you’ll see how facilities across the country celebrated the week and showed appreciation for the dedicated professionals who serve their communities every day.
Alachua County Sheriff's Office Department of Jail
Gainesville, Florida
“Behind the walls of our jail, our detention officers and detention deputies work tirelessly to maintain safety and security while treating those in custody with dignity, respect, and compassion. Their professionalism, dedication, and heart are truly appreciated, and during National Correctional Officers Week, we were proud to celebrate them in a special way.
Before the official start of National Correctional Officers Week, the Alachua County Commission recognized the men and women of the Department of the Jail during its April 28th commission meeting. The commissioners also issued a countywide proclamation declaring May 3rd–9th as National Correctional Officers Week, honoring detention officers and detention deputies who serve our community every day.
The week kicked off with a special video message on social media, created by the Public Information Office, which was posted on Sunday, May 3rd. Different employees were interviewed about how they support the mission through the three Cs of Corrections: Care, Custody, and Control.
“Corrections officers are just as important as deputies out on the road,” stated Sheriff Scott. “It takes a special person to do their job, to have that passion, to have that integrity, to want to go inside that jail every single day for 12 hours and work.”
Throughout the week, our command staff showed their appreciation by firing up the grill and serving a BBQ feast for both the day shift and night shift teams, complete with chicken, green beans, potato salad, corn, and rolls. Staff members also received snack-filled goodie bags to help keep them energized throughout their shifts.
“As the director of the jail, it is my honor and absolute privilege to celebrate the officers’ dedication, courage, and professionalism,” explained Major Dorian Keith. “I recognize the vital role they play in maintaining safety and security within the walls. Although they often work behind the scenes, their commitment to public service and the welfare of both staff and inmates is profoundly appreciated. I am honored to work alongside each of them as their major and the jail’s director.”
The celebration ended on a sweet note with popcorn and ice cream deliveries, with plenty of frozen treats to choose from.
“As the director of the jail, it is my honor and absolute privilege to celebrate the officers’ dedication, courage, and professionalism,” explained Major Dorian Keith. “I recognize the vital role they play in maintaining safety and security within the walls. Although they often work behind the scenes, their commitment to public service and the welfare of both staff and inmates is profoundly appreciated. I am honored to work alongside each of them as their major and the jail’s director.”
The celebration ended on a sweet note with popcorn and ice cream deliveries, with plenty of frozen treats to choose from.
Anne Arundel County Department of Detention Facilities
Annapolis, Maryland
The festivities at Anne Arundel County Department of Detention Facilities began with “Everyday Theme Dress Days,” offering team members a fun opportunity to showcase their workplace spirit while enjoying a relaxed break from their standard uniforms. As a token of appreciation for the staff’s tireless hard work—which was officially recognized with a proclamation from the County Executive—the Department curated a diverse lineup of daily perks and wellness events focused on relaxation and rejuvenation. Throughout the week, employees were treated to an assortment of delicious refreshments, highlighted by a festive community cookout on the front lawn. The high-energy atmosphere was further fueled by daily giveaways and raffle drawings. Prioritizing staff well-being, the Department also provided professional, on-site seated chair massages, offering team members a well-deserved opportunity to decompress and recharge during their shifts.
Cattaraugus County Sheriff's Office
Little Valley, New York
On May 6 and 7 the Weld County Sheriff’s Office Detentions Administration hosted an appreciation cookout for detentions deputies and jail staff at the Weld County Jail in recognition of National Correctional Officers and employee’s week.
Weld County Detentions supervisors organized the event, that included side dishes, and grilling hot dogs and hamburgers for all the attendees to show their appreciation for the hard work and dedication of Weld County Jail detentions deputies and staff
Arlington County Sheriff's Office
Arlington, Virginia
The Arlington County Sheriff’s Office proudly celebrated National Correctional Employees Week with a proclamation ceremony recognizing the vital role correctional professionals play in public safety. Arlington County Board Members Matt de Ferranti and Maureen Coffey joined ACSO leadership and staff to read the official proclamation, honoring the dedication and service of correctional employees and their impact on the Arlington community. Throughout the week, ACSO staff participated in a series of roll call presentations, wellness-focused activities, and team-building opportunities designed to promote mental health, strengthen connections across shifts, and reinforce the importance of employee well-being in a demanding profession.
The week also coincided with National Nurses Week, providing an opportunity to recognize the critical contributions of ACSO’s medical staff. In November 2025, ACSO assumed operational control of its detention facility healthcare services, bringing medical care in-house for the first time, and appointed Dr. Richard Malish as its first Chief Medical Director. As a result of this transition to a self-operated medical model, nurses have become an integral part of the team, supporting the health, safety, and well-being of individuals in custody while working in close partnership with security staff.
The ACSO was proud to recognize and celebrate its employees throughout the week. Their professionalism, commitment, and compassion remain essential to the mission of maintaining a safe, secure, and progressive detention environment. Their contributions do not go unnoticed, and the office was honored to celebrate their service.
Photos include Sheriff Quiroz and Chief Medical Director Dr. Malish with nurses, a deputy raffle winner, Sheriff with Chef David from local business Bayou Bakery, who donated breakfast during the week, employees at a special meal in the staff dining area, and ACSO leadership with Arlington County Board Members for proclamation reading.
Chase County Detention Center
Cottonwood Falls, Kansas
During National Correctional Officer Week, Chase County Detention Center showed appreciation for staff by recognizing their hard work and dedication to the facility and community. To celebrate, the detention center stocked the freezer with ice cream and provided a variety of drinks for staff, including Monsters, Gatorade, pop, and tea. In addition, every staff member received an ink pen with a special individualized message as a small token of appreciation for their commitment and professionalism.
Staff also created a wall decoration featuring every employee’s name displayed on a star along with a personal message about what is appreciated about them. This display helped recognize the positive impact each staff member has on the facility and their coworkers. The celebration was a simple but meaningful way to thank correctional officers and staff for the important work they do every day.
Clark County Detention Center
Las Vegas, Nevada
The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department celebrated National Correctional Officers Week at the Clark County Detention Center with a Proclamation from the Clark County Commissioners, a visit from LVMPD Sheriff Kevin McMahill and members of his Executive Team, a special meal for all staff, and local business owners and members of our community who support Las Vegas law enforcement came out to provide food and thanks to employees.
DC Department of Corrections
District of Columbia
The District of Columbia Department of Corrections proudly celebrated National Correctional Officers and Employees Week by honoring the dedication, professionalism, and hard work of staff across the agency. Throughout the week, employees from all shifts were recognized through a variety of events designed to promote appreciation, camaraderie, and wellness. Staff attended the 34th Annual Wreath Laying Ceremony and participated in the Honor Guard Competition. Additional celebrations included a staff breakfast, BBQ, pizza and smoothie events, an ice cream social, and a fish fry, ensuring employees working varied schedules all had an opportunity to participate. The week served as a meaningful reminder of the commitment and sacrifice correctional professionals make each day in service to the community.
Front Street Detention Center
Kansas City, Missouri
The Kansas City Department of Community Safety kicked celebrated their first Corrections Employees Week as a department with the usual goodies and treats. We had tacos on Cinco de Mayo, BBQ from Jack Stack on Wednesday, and on Thursday the City celebrated our staff with a resolution recognizing National Corrections Employee Week, sponsored by Councilman Wes Rogers. We also issued our first department challenge coin, listing the shared values our employees developed—Selfless Service, Courage, Professionalism, Respect, and Integrity. Staff were recognized for their special contributions.
Leadership—Deputy Director Megan Case
Correctional Officer of the Year— Sgt. Orlando Aguilar
Safety—Sgt. Trina Young
Honorable Mentions—Sgt. Princess Harbin and CO Jamal Smith
Special Memento—Capt. Richard Hummons
Harford County Detention Center
Bel Air, Maryland
The Harford County Detention Center celebrated Correctional Officers Week by showing appreciation for all correctional staff, including our contractual team members. Throughout the week, staff enjoyed a variety of meals, including pit beef & turkey, pasta, fried chicken, BBQ, and prime rib.
This special week gives us an opportunity to recognize the hard work and dedication of our entire team, and what better way to show appreciation than by sharing great food together.
Hernando County Sheriff's Office
Brooksville, Florida
To honor and express appreciation for the dedicated men and women of the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office Detention Center during National Correctional Officer and Employee Week, the Board of County Commissioners opened the week by adopting a resolution and issuing a proclamation recognizing the outstanding dedication and service of all correctional officers, nurses, and support staff.
The week began with Sergeant Patrick Baker and Sergeant Gary Wisgarda preparing and serving meals from the barbecue pit, ensuring that both day- and night-shift personnel were provided with a home-cooked meal.
Our local businesses and vendors generously demonstrated their support by providing meals, raffle prizes, and gifts each day to both the day and night shifts. We extend our sincere gratitude to Walmart Spring Hill, Guardian RFID, Keefe Canteen, Smart Communications, Chick-fil-A Brooksville, PDQ, Mission BBQ, 1st Choice Pharmacy, California Nails, Biltmore Construction Company, Employee Benefit Fund, and private donations from our hard-working staff.
The community support for the dedicated women and men involved is what makes the county of Hernando great!
Kenosha County Sheriff's Office
Kenosha, Wisconsin
During National Correctional Officers Week, our detention supervisors provided meals and treats throughout the week as a small token of appreciation for the hard work and dedication our staff demonstrates each day. In addition, we partnered with our vendors, who also planned and provided special meals to recognize and thank our correctional professionals for their service.
Correctional staff are often the unseen professionals within the public safety field, working tirelessly behind the scenes to maintain the safety, security, and well-being of both the facility and the community. Their hard work and commitment do not go unnoticed. It is extremely important that our leadership team continually expresses gratitude and appreciation for the professionalism, dedication, and service our staff provides to the community every day. It is also extremely important that each of our staff find time to have fun with the job!
Madison County Sheriff's Office
Edwardsville, Illinois
We grilled food for the staff two days of the week; we also had a couple of meals catered for the other days. We also celebrated an employee retiring.
Oklahoma County Detention Center
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
The Oklahoma County Detention Center in Oklahoma City proudly celebrated National Correctional Officers Week, Nurses Week, and Public Service Recognition Week 2026 by honoring the hardworking men and women who serve our facility and community every day. The week was filled with fun, food, and appreciation as staff members were recognized for their dedication, professionalism, and commitment to public service.
Monday kicked off with a sponsored lunch and dinner featuring burgers, hot dogs, chips, and drinks for all shifts. Tuesday brought a little extra fun with Popcorn Day, giving staff a chance to enjoy a favorite snack throughout the day. Wednesday’s highlight was a delicious fish fry sponsored by NCIC, complete with French fries and hush puppies, with our very own Major McGuckin proudly working the fry line. On Thursday, staff cooled off with Kona Ice provided by the EAC, bringing smiles and sweet treats to the facility. The celebration wrapped up Friday with a pizza party sponsored by Oklahoma Jail and Prison Ministries Chaplain Services.
Beyond the meals, several staff members were highlighted each day of the week for their exceptional service and received special gifts donated by local community staples. These prizes included exciting packages from Science Museum Oklahoma and the Winchester Drive-In, adding an extra layer of excitement and gratitude to the festivities.
Throughout the week, the Oklahoma County Detention Center celebrated the incredible teamwork, sacrifice, and dedication of our correctional professionals, nurses, and public servants who work tirelessly to keep our facility safe, secure, and operational every day.
Kershaw County Detention Center
Camden, South Carolina
For National Correctional Officers Week, Kershaw County Detention Center chose to recognize the sacrifices our officers and employees make each and every day with a themed week centered around appreciation, morale, and teamwork.
Each day of the week featured a different theme and opportunity for staff engagement through trivia and other surprises:
Monday: Favorite Cartoon Character Day
Staff kicked off the week by wearing t-shirts featuring their favorite cartoon character while enjoying a sponsored breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Tuesday: Favorite Sports Team Day
Staff were permitted to show support for their favorite teams by wearing shirts featuring their favorite sports team throughout the facility. Staff were also provided with sponsored lunch and dinner.
Wednesday: Wacky Socks and Hair Day
Staff brought energy and laughter to the workplace with their wacky socks and hair. Sponsored breakfasts, lunches, and dinners were also provided throughout the day.
Thursday: Appreciation Day
Staff enjoyed a sponsored lunch along with a frozen yogurt food truck as a special treat to thank employees for their continued hard work and dedication.
Friday: Superhero Day
The week concluded with staff highlighting their favorite superhero and a staff luncheon. During the catered luncheon, officers were recognized through fun and meaningful superlative awards that highlighted the personalities, strengths, and contributions of staff members across the detention center.
John E. Polk Correctional Facility
Sanford, Florida
National Correctional Officers Week at the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office Corrections Division was filled with fun, food, and appreciation as staff across all shifts were recognized for their hard work and dedication. The entire week was planned and coordinated by the Employee Appreciation Team, with support from Chief Laura Bedard, Captain Heath, Captain Howard, and Captain Rados, who helped make the celebration a success.
Throughout the week, supervisors, captains, and command staff served meals to employees on every shift while music, games, and friendly competition kept the atmosphere upbeat and enjoyable. Staff members also received goodie bags delivered throughout the week as an extra thank-you for everything they do. Popcorn stations with a variety of toppings were available during all shifts, and employees enjoyed cooling off with visits from a snow-cone truck.
The celebration wrapped up on Friday with a large raffle drawing featuring hundreds of prizes collected by the Employee Appreciation Team through generous donations from the community and businesses. Overall, the week was a great opportunity to boost morale, have some fun, and show appreciation for the dedicated men and women who serve our facility every day.
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Lexington Community Corrections
Lexington, Kentucky
During Correctional Officers Appreciation Week, Lexington Community Corrections recognized the dedication and sacrifice of its officers and employees through a series of events honoring both current and former corrections professionals. Staff members across all three shifts were served daily meals throughout the week as a gesture of appreciation for their continued commitment to public safety and the care of those in custody.
The department also held a wreath-laying ceremony to honor fallen correctional officers whose service and sacrifice will never be forgotten. In addition, Lexington Community Corrections proudly dedicated the Officers Dining Room to former Chief Rodney Ballard during a special ceremony attended by Mr. Ballard’s family, colleagues, and community members. The dedication recognized Chief Ballard’s years of leadership, service, and lasting impact on the profession, the department, and its staff.
Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
During National Correctional Officer Week, our agency recognized the dedication, professionalism, and sacrifice of the men and women who serve in corrections. Each day featured appreciation gifts, and a provided meal. Recognition also played an important role, as officers shared stories which were posted on our agency’s social media pages.
We want to express our sincere gratitude for the support and donations from Double Tree Hotels, Pizza Shuttle, Olive Garden, Sam’s Club, Pick ‘n Save, Klements, Trinity Service Group, Jersey Mike’s, Starbucks, Portillo’s, Capital Grille, DOC’s Steakhouse, Chili’s, Georgie Porgie’s, Marcus Theatres, Five O’Clock Steakhouse, Sobelman’s, and Shake Shack. Without their donations and support, our celebrations could not have been possible.
Meherrin River Regional Jail
Alberta, Virginia
Meherrin River Regional Jail proudly celebrated National Correctional Officers Week with a week full of activities dedicated to recognizing the hard work, professionalism, and commitment of its correctional officers and staff. The celebration provided employees with opportunities to relax, connect with coworkers, and enjoy a variety of fun events throughout the week.
Staff participated in themed Spirit Week activities, including “Favorite Movie Quote” Day, complete with free kettle corn prepared by our very own Capt. J. Lucy, “Western Wear” Day, and “Fun Facts Friday.” One of the week’s most popular attractions was the petting zoo, which brought excitement and laughter to staff across the facility. Employees also enjoyed a photo booth where coworkers captured memorable moments together.
Food was a major part of the celebration, with staff enjoying a special breakfast featuring cinnamon roll pancakes, bacon, and home fries. Command Staff also prepared hamburgers and hot dogs for employees, while A Taste of Texas BBQ Food Truck visited the facility to serve brisket and chicken meals. Throughout the week, the “Woot Woot” Snack Wagon provided snacks and treats to keep staff energized.
The celebration was made even more special through the support of local businesses and community vendors, who donated prizes for daily raffles. A total of 43 door prizes were awarded during the week.
National Correctional Officers Week serves as an important reminder of the challenging work correctional professionals perform each day. Meherrin River Regional Jail remains grateful for the dedication and sacrifices of its officers and staff, whose efforts help ensure the safety and security of the facility, offenders, and surrounding communities.
NYC Training and Development Academy
Middle Village, New York
The New York City Department of Correction commemorates National Correction Officer Week by recognizing the dedication, professionalism, and resilience of its uniformed and civilian staff through a series of meaningful events and activities.
A highlight of the week is “Bring Your Children to Work Day,” which offers families a firsthand look at the vital role correction officers play in maintaining safety and order. This initiative strengthens the connection between staff and their loved ones while fostering pride in public service.
The Department also celebrates the achievements of its future workforce during the CEEDS Cadet Graduation Ceremony at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, honoring cadets who have successfully completed the program and are preparing to enter careers in corrections and law enforcement.
In addition, Academy staff participate in recertification courses in CPR, AED, and First Aid, reinforcing the Department’s commitment to safety, preparedness, and professional excellence.
Together, these events reflect the Department’s ongoing investment in its people, its mission, and the communities it serves.
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Orange County Corrections Department
Orlando, Florida
May 3–9 was National Correctional Officers and Employees Week, and the Orange County Corrections Department kicked the occasion off with a series of celebratory events. The Mayor proclaimed May 3–9, 2026, as National Correctional Officers and Employees Week in Orange County. Staff Dining hosted appreciation meals all week. A highlight of the week was the fifth Tri-County Bowling Challenge. The annual event pits Orange County against neighboring jails in a competition for the prize. Orange County brought home the champion trophy for the fifth consecutive year. The week closed with color day. Staff members dressed in their building’s designated color as a show of appreciation and support.
Osceola County Corrections Department
Kissimmee, Florida
During National Correctional Officers and Employees Week, our agency proudly recognized the dedication, professionalism, and hard work of the men and women who serve our facility each day. Throughout the week, several activities and events were organized to show appreciation for the commitment our employees demonstrate in maintaining the safety and security of our community.
Staff participated in themed luncheons that provided an opportunity for employees from all areas of the organization to come together, enjoy a meal, and strengthen camaraderie among coworkers. Employees were also presented with the agency’s newly designed challenge coin, symbolizing pride, professionalism, and unity within the department.
One of the week’s highlights was participation in the Tri-County Bowling Tournament alongside Orange County Corrections and the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office. The event promoted teamwork, morale, and positive relationships between neighboring public safety agencies through friendly competition and fellowship.
To further encourage participation and boost morale, themed spirit days were held throughout the week. Uniformed staff were permitted to wear sneakers and colored undershirts on designated days, allowing employees to take part in the celebration while still maintaining professionalism.
Correctional Officers and Employees Appreciation Week served as an important opportunity to recognize the contributions of all employees and thank them for their continued dedication and commitment to the organization’s mission.
Pender County Jail
Burgaw, North Carolina
I am so proud to announce that our Sheriff Alan Cutler, along with our Captain Margaret Strickland, presented the staff with some special treats and gifts. Pender County shared our Detention Officers on the county website, showing photos of them actively engaged during several training exercises. The county also did a write-up with every post. I am very proud to say our Pender County Sheriff’s Office, along with Pender County, made our officers feel special and appreciated!
Philadelphia Department of Prisons
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Correctional Employees Week in Philadelphia was back in full swing as the Philadelphia Department of Prisons (PDP) hosted a week of team-building, morale-boosting, and employee-appreciation events. Mayor Cherelle L. Parker kicked off the celebration by speaking at Monday’s opening ceremony and reading an official Correctional Employees Week proclamation, and PDP employees were awarded trophies for winning inter-facility competitions in football, softball, basketball, soccer, and dodgeball.
Throughout the week, PDP honored employees for their dedication and service with several special events, including a banquet recognizing employees with perfect attendance, a luncheon for staff with 25 to 35 years of service, Mardi Gras Day at the House of Corrections, and an inter-facility Double-Dutch tournament. Although rainy weather delayed the annual Barbeque Picnic Day and Food Truck Day until May 19 and 20, they were worth the wait—employees still enjoyed good food and fellowship!
The week concluded with a Correctional Officer cadet class graduation on Friday morning and the PDP’s annual dinner banquet that evening. Employees of the Year from the Department’s various teams and units were recognized for their outstanding contributions, and the Unit of the Year was announced at the banquet.
Correctional Employees Week remains an important opportunity to celebrate the hardworking men and women who keep PDP facilities running every day, and to recognize the dedication, professionalism, and teamwork they demonstrate in service to the City of Philadelphia.
Tate County Jail
Senatobia, Mississippi
During National Correctional Officers Week, the Tate County Jail took time to recognize and thank the men and women who serve inside our facility every day. Throughout the week, meals were provided for staff as a small gesture of appreciation for their professionalism, dedication, and commitment to public safety.
To close out the week, the command staff hosted a crawfish boil for the jail staff. This gave everyone an opportunity to step away briefly, share a meal, and enjoy fellowship with coworkers who understand the challenges and responsibilities of correctional work.
Our correctional officers serve in a demanding environment, often dealing with individuals during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. Their work is essential to the safe and professional operation of the Tate County Jail, and National Correctional Officers Week gave us a meaningful opportunity to say thank you.
Travis County Correctional Complex
Del Valle, Texas
The saying goes, “Everything’s bigger in Texas”. Well, the Travis County Sheriff’s Office proved it as it celebrated National Correctional Officers and Employees Week. Every day of the week, appreciation was expressed in creative ways that fostered fun and camaraderie.
Monday’s Star Wars Day: “May the 4th be with you”; Tuesday’s Cinco de Mayo festivities; Wednesday’s Chili Cook-Off; Thursday’s Cowboy Breakfast; and Friday’s Law & Lather Car Wash were huge hits. Daily giveaways, gift cards, games, food, and special events–including Golden Ticket lunches with Captains–generated an uplifting atmosphere for staff across the agency.
The week’s success was made possible through the generous support of vendors, Command Staff, and volunteers. National Correctional Officers and Employees Week is a valuable opportunity to go that extra mile and thank employees for their professionalism and dedicated service.
Pinellas County Jail
Clearwater, Florida
In recognition of National Corrections Week, the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office Department of Detention and Corrections proudly hosted its 2nd Annual Corrections Appreciation Luau at the Pinellas County Jail.
The two-day celebration brought together members from across the entire PCSO DDC family, including sworn and non-sworn staff, medical personnel, judicial staff, and support professionals from every shift. The event served as an opportunity to recognize the hard work, dedication, and teamwork that keep the Department operating around the clock.
The luau-themed event featured island music provided by a live DJ, helping keep the atmosphere upbeat and energetic throughout the celebration. Attendees enjoyed a full menu that included pulled pork, grilled chicken, hamburgers, pineapple rice, macaroni and cheese, Caesar salad, and the crowd favorite, Colonel Gerretz’s famous strawberry shortcake. Snow cones were also available to help everyone cool down while enjoying the Florida weather and festivities.
More than just a meal, the event highlighted the camaraderie and appreciation shared throughout the Department of Detention and Corrections. National Corrections Week serves as an important reminder of the commitment and professionalism demonstrated daily by corrections personnel and support staff who play a critical role in public safety and the operation of the Pinellas County Jail.
The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office Department of Detention and Corrections extends its gratitude to everyone who helped organize and support this year’s celebration, making the 2nd Annual Corrections Appreciation Luau another successful and memorable event for the entire DDC family.
Virginia Peninsula Regional Jail
Williamsburg, Virginia
The Virginia Peninsula Regional Jail (VPRJ) recently celebrated National Correctional Officers and Employees Week and National Nurses Week during May 3-9. The event was successful and well attended, highlighting the professionalism, dedication, and service of our correctional and healthcare professionals.
VPRJ’s contracted service providers and vendors provided meals and raffle prizes for our employees. We were honored to welcome several distinguished guests, including The Honorable Jay Jones, Attorney General of Virginia; The Honorable Delegate Mark Downey (District 69); The Honorable Delegate Anderson (District 71); Chief Deputy Director Harvey Powers and Field Services Coordinator Mr. Michael Coker of the Department of Criminal Justice Services; Ben Green, Outreach Representative for U.S. Senator Mark Warner; Erin Carter, Regional Director for U.S. Senator Mark Warner; The Honorable David Hardin, Sheriff of the Williamsburg/James City County Sheriff’s Office; Mr. Jeff Steger, former Fairfax Police Department officer, member of Two Rivers Country Club, and sponsor of the First Responders Golf Tournament; members of the Virginia Peninsula Regional Jail Authority Board; and many former employees of the Virginia Peninsula Regional Jail.
While I greatly enjoyed the fellowship and opportunity to celebrate and recognize our staff, I also appreciated the opportunity to provide tours of the facility to our distinguished guests and former employees. These tours allowed attendees to observe firsthand the many recent upgrades and enhancements made throughout the facility to support smoother operations and continued organizational support.
The tours also presented an opportunity for our guests and former employees to reflect upon and honor the dedicated service and sacrifice of fallen Officer Major Angelanette Moore, who passed in the line of duty on January 23, 2020. I shared Major Moore’s story and legacy with guests who had never had the privilege of meeting her, ensuring the dedication, leadership, and commitment to the Virginia Peninsula Regional Jail continue to be remembered and honored.
The week served as a wonderful reminder of the important role correctional professionals and healthcare staff play in public safety and community service. We remain appreciative of the support shown by our elected officials, agency partners, community supporters, and former employees as we continue our mission of service and public safety. Colonel Roy Witham, Superintendent, Virginia Peninsula Regional Jail
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Volusia County Division of Corrections
Daytona Beach, Florida
The Volusia County Division of Corrections did an amazing job recognizing the hard-working employees in the division for National Corrections Officer, Nurses, and Employee Week. It was a Herculean team effort from all employees to help serve and deliver meals all week. Vendor participation from Aramark, Keefe, and VitalCore was greatly appreciated.
The corrections week celebration started on Monday with catered food for all employees at 1130 hours and 1800 hours from a local restaurant serving Bar-B-Que. Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday Chicken wings, sausages, street corn, and salad were provided for all employees at 1130 hours and 1800 hours. The county covered the food cost, and a team of multiple dedicated employees smoked and cooked all the food starting at 0500 hours and finishing around 1800 hours. Wednesday was catered Publix subs for all employees at 1130 hours and 1800 hours. Meals were delivered off-site to employees assigned to hospital duty.
One member of Volusia County Council presented the proclamation on-site before the food was served for Nurses week on Wednesday and presented the proclamation for Corrections Officer and Employee Week on Thursday.
As we celebrate Corrections Officers and Employees, the Division also wanted to encourage continued wellness strategies to maintain a happy and healthy Division. A health advocate and a well-being strategist from Cigna Health were on site meeting with employees providing physical and mental health coaching and resources during meal servings on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Representatives from the County Human Resources department were on site reviewing benefits, ensuring beneficiaries were up to date, and providing information regarding retirement.
The Chaplain did a book giveaway including “When Home Becomes a Housing Unit,” “The Nothing That Never Happen,” and “Trained to Change,” along with gift cards. Numerous other items were also raffled off.
Walton County Jail
DeFuniak Springs, Florida
The first week of May marked a nationwide observance honoring the professionalism, resilience, and steadfast commitment of correctional employees throughout the United States. With National Nurses Day falling the same week, the Walton County Sheriff’s Office recognized both its correctional staff and medical personnel who provide critical care within the facility. An Employee Appreciation Team coordinated the week’s events to ensure meaningful recognition for all.
Personnel were welcomed to the sheriff’s office complex by two large “Thank You” banners for correctional staff and medical staff, symbolizing the agency’s appreciation and setting a tone of respect and gratitude for every employee whose work supports the safe, secure, and humane operation of the jail.
Throughout the week, Command Staff prepared breakfast, lunch, and dinner for all shifts. Breakfast was served daily from 4:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m., ensuring both nightshift and dayshift personnel could begin or end their day with a hot meal, including fried eggs, biscuits, sausage gravy, tomato gravy, and sausage patties. Sysco supplied all breakfast items.
Lunch and dinner offerings rotated to provide variety. One meal featured hamburgers with all accompanying condiments, Cajun potato salad, baked beans, and coleslaw, supported by donations from Bubba Jacks, Hurricane Oyster Bar, and Nick’s Seafood. Another meal included fried chicken with mashed potatoes, gravy, and green beans, made possible through contributions from Sweet Southern, Piggly Wiggly, and Emerald Transformers. A boiled peanut station was provided with regular peanuts and Cajun peanuts for staff to snack on between meals.
These meals did more than just meet a basic need. They gave our teams and leadership a rare chance to connect and spend time together, something that doesn’t happen often in a 24hour operation where everyone is usually focused on their day-to-day responsibilities.
This year’s Employee Appreciation Week benefited from exceptional community support, allowing every employee to feel valued and recognized. Local businesses and private donors contributed 41 gifts, 44 Take 5 Oil Change certificates, and significant food and monetary donations, all of which directly supported the week’s events.
The variety of donated gifts reflected the community’s appreciation for the work performed inside the Walton County Jail. Among the many generous donations included four guided fishing excursions; gift cards from a range of local restaurants; spa and salon certificates; recreational items such as a rod and reel combo from Copeland’s Gun & Tackle; coolers from Liveoak Homes and Ferguson Waterworks; handcrafted cornhole boards; a $100 STO Outfitter gift card; homegoods items from community partners; and VISA gift cards provided by Ewing and additional donors.
Food contributions from Emerald Transformers, Piggly Wiggly, Sysco, Bubba Jacks, Hurricane Oyster Bar, Nick’s Seafood, and Sweet Southern enabled the agency to serve full meals throughout the week at no cost.
Monetary support was provided by Water Proof America, Deep Southland Clearing, Grayt A Construction, Tranquility Day Spa, Fannin’s, the Inmate Recognition & Identification System (IRIS), Dan O’Donnell, Real Time Networks, Carmal Cow, WOA Wholesale, Elizabeth Ricketts, and Nancy Wright. This funding enhanced the overall celebration and provided additional resources for staff recognition.
A special partnership with Shady Ray’s allowed the agency to provide each Jail Division employee with a pair of polarized sunglasses—an especially appreciated item given Florida’s bright, sunintense conditions.
To ensure all staff could participate, the prize drawing was conducted virtually through TEAMS, enabling both onduty and offduty personnel to join.
Employee Appreciation Week reflects the Jail Division’s vision: “A team of professionals committed to protecting the public, maintaining order, and building better people.” Correctional staff and facility nurses perform demanding, often unseen work that is vital to community safety. This year’s observance served as a meaningful reminder of their dedication, unity, and professionalism.
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Washington County Correctional Facility
Washington, Pennsylvania
Our County Government declared May 4-8, 2026, as Corrections Employee Week. We celebrated with all staff including steak cook out and selected enhanced meals every day during the week. HR contracted a masseuse with massage chair for all staff to get a free 10-minute massage. Every employee received a gift from Ashley Skrobacs and Sam Bailey (corrections heart key chain with corrections prayer card).
Weld County Sheriff's Office/Jail
Greeley, Colorado
On May 6 and 7 the Weld County Sheriff’s Office Detentions Administration hosted an appreciation cookout for detentions deputies and jail staff at the Weld County Jail in recognition of National Correctional Officers and employee’s week.
Weld County Detentions supervisors organized the event, that included side dishes, and grilling hot dogs and hamburgers for all the attendees to show their appreciation for the hard work and dedication of Weld County Jail detentions deputies and staff.
