Holiday Cheer from Around DOC

February 5, 2025

By DOC Communications (email) Department of Corrections

Cedar Creek Corrections Center Builds Hope with Bus Stop Donations

For the last five years, the Construction Trades Apprenticeship Preparation (CTAP) program at Cedar Creek Corrections Center (CCCC) has been combining creativity, skill, and a commitment to giving back. Each year, CTAP participants craft and donate two custom-designed bus stops to Littlerock Elementary School for their Winterfest fundraiser. The funds raised from the auction support school programs such as field trips, sports, and music, enriching the lives of local students.

“We let the CTAP students decide what they want to build, and then we get creative,” said Bruce Carley, the CTAP instructor and an associate professor at Centralia College. “My biggest focus is on showing them the possibilities. Instead of seeing gray stones, bars, and wire, we bring life and color into what they create.”

This year’s creations were a “Back to School” bus stop, complete with a steering wheel and gauge cluster, and a pineapple inspired by SpongeBob SquarePants, complete with a mural of SpongeBob inside. Each bus stop is meticulously painted and detailed inside and out, showcasing the craftsmanship and pride of the students.

“We’ve been working on bus stops for about 3-4 weeks,’ said Terry Reifer, a CTAP student at CCCC. “It’s been fun but hard, you know. It’s fun to see it coming all together now but it was stressful doing all that math. It feels really good to give back in a positive way.”

Over the years, the program has produced a variety of designs, from a Space Needle replica to a mountain-themed bus stop featuring inspirational quotes from historical figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Mother Teresa. “The mountain bus stop was my favorite,” Carley shared. “It had a carved wooden mountain top and a painted cave interior. It was about blending beauty, psychology, and inspiration for the kids.”

CTAP is more than a creative outlet – it’s a life-changing program. Recognized as one of the largest pre-apprenticeship programs in Washington State, CTAP partners with the Carpenters, Cement Masons and Plasterers, Laborers, and Iron Workers apprenticeship programs. Many graduates leave the program to secure well-paying jobs in the trades, some even starting their own companies or mentoring others.

The bus stops, much like the program itself, are a testament to transformation—turning raw materials and untapped potential into something meaningful and lasting. So, if you’re driving through the Littlerock area and happen to see a spaceship or superhero hideaway on the side of the road, Carley has one request, “Enjoy.”

Serving Up the Holiday Spirit at Wenatchee Valley Reentry Center

The kitchen staff at Wenatchee Valley Reentry Center (WVRC) brought the holidays to the table this season, working with residents to make Thanksgiving and Christmas meals unforgettable.

Thanksgiving featured a feast of fresh turkey, classic side dishes, and five different desserts, filling the center with the comforting flavors of the season. On Christmas Day, residents started their morning with warm cinnamon rolls and enjoyed a special dinner of brisket, ham, and hearty sides.

These meals were more than just festive—they were a part of the Washington Way efforts to support normalization and prepare residents for successful reentry. Through shared traditions and moments of connection, WVRC staff and residents celebrated the season together, one meal at a time.

Hanukkah Celebrated at Monroe Correctional Complex with Unity and Tradition

The spirit of Hanukkah brought together diverse faith communities at the Monroe Correctional Complex (MCC) on December 8th during a heartfelt and vibrant celebration. Approximately 38 people attended the event, including incarcerated individuals, their friends and families, and Washington State dignitaries such as Representative Roger Goodman and Representative Tara Senn.

Two distinct Jewish groups—the traditional Orthodox Jewish group and the Messianic Jewish group—held separate services but came together to share a meal. The three-hour celebration was filled with music, prayer, personal testimonies, and reflections on community and faith.

The Orthodox Jewish service emphasized community support, restorative justice, and gratitude toward external supporters of the incarcerated Jewish community. Their service included musical performances, heartfelt testimonies, and guest speakers who shared words of encouragement and appreciation.

The Messianic Jewish group, though smaller in number, focused their time on prayer, scripture readings, and a video teaching centered on biblical prophecy. Their theme highlighted fulfilled and ongoing spiritual promises through their belief in Jesus as the Messiah.

The shared meal featured cheese ravioli, applesauce, orange sherbet and Oreo cookies as well as corned beef sandwiches with condiments that were donated by Jewish Prisoner Services International.

Although both groups share cultural Jewish roots, their theological differences were respectfully observed during their separate services. However, the overarching themes of faith, reflection, and community brought a sense of unity to the celebration.

While the services did not cover every planned agenda item due to time constraints, the event was deemed a success by attendees. Hanukkah at the Monroe Correctional Complex stood as a testament to the power of shared traditions, respect, and the enduring human spirit.

Incarcerated Women Showcase Talents at Washington’s Governor’s Mansion for the Holidays

In an annual display of skill and collaboration, incarcerated individuals from the Washington Corrections Center for Women (WCCW) and the Mission Creek Corrections Center for Women (MCCCW) brought the holiday spirit to the Washington Governor’s Mansion. This tradition showcased the women’s work in floriculture and horticulture, thanks to their participation in programs run in partnership with the Department of Corrections and Tacoma Community College.

Programs like the floriculture and horticulture initiatives at WCCW and MCCCW highlight the importance of providing incarcerated individuals with educational and vocational training that provide personal growth. The collaboration with TCC demonstrates the power of partnerships to create pathways for rehabilitation while benefiting the community.

Incarcerated individuals who have honed their craft through these rehabilitative programs, created much of the holiday décor by hand. They grew and assembled intricate wreaths, garlands, and floral decorations, including arrangements destined to be planted in the Mansion’s exterior spaces. This effort brings forth engagement with sustainable practices and vocational training, preparing them for opportunities post-incarceration.

The day took an unexpected personal turn when the Former Governor and First Lady Trudi Inslee came downstairs unannounced to meet with the decorators. In an intimate and genuine gesture, they shook hands with each participant, asking about their aspirations and listening to their personal stories. Following the meet-and-greet, participants were invited to the Mansion’s dining room for a catered lunch prepared by the head chef. The meal became a lively gathering, where discussions ranged from favorite films to memorable life experiences. This relaxed setting allowed everyone to connect on a human level.

“Have you ever found something that brings you so much joy, that it’s no longer work? That’s what horticulture is to me,” says Elizabeth Murphy, incarcerated individual. “This program has provided me with an opportunity to do something special, to be involved, to meet a Governor. He was able to hear my voice personally. That’s something that many people don’t get an opportunity to do, especially incarcerated.”

For the incarcerated participants, the day became an opportunity to display their skills and a chance to engage in the community and feel valued for their contributions. Many spoke of the pride they felt in seeing their handmade decorations grace the historic Mansion and the encouragement they gained from personal interactions with state leaders.

For the state leaders, this event carried special significance as it marked several farewells and transitions in Washington State leadership. Former Governor Jay Inslee, serving his final term, and his wife, Trudi Inslee, were deeply moved by the occasion. Former Secretary Cheryl Strange, who had originally planned to retire, also participated in the festivities for the last time in her current role. However, incoming Governor Bob Ferguson recently announced that former DOC Secretary Strange will serve as acting Secretary of the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) while the search for a permanent leader is underway.

“This is a highly productive reentry centric program that the women here love. Just being here to see the mansion decorated is really something special and I’m going to miss this,” says former Secretary Cheryl Strange, DOC. “But I know that the program is going to continue on, and I’m really proud of it.”

As Washington transitions into new leadership, events like this are a poignant reminder of the values that underpin public service: compassion, inclusion, and a belief in the potential for transformation. For the individuals who contributed to the Governor’s Mansion decorations, this day will undoubtedly remain a cherished milestone in their journey toward a brighter future.

A Holiday First for Mission Creek Corrections Center for Women

The spirit of the season shone brightly at Mission Creek Corrections Center for Women (MCCCW) on December 6, as the facility hosted its first-ever Christmas tree lighting event. The highlight of the evening was a nearly 20-foot-tall tree that was donated by a staff member and meticulously decorated by students from the Trades Related Apprenticeship Coaching (TRAC) program.

“It was a way to help bridge the gap between the population and the CO’s that are hoping to make this a traditional holiday celebration,” said Julie MacMillan, a TRAC student at MCCCW.

The TRAC shed, which served as the centerpiece of the event, was adorned with festive lights and handmade cutouts of festive figures like gingerbread men, nutcrackers and snowmen, adding a warm, personal touch to the celebration.

“The TRAC students opened their minds to creativity and used old materials to make the decorations happen,” said Ian O’Boyle, the TRAC Instructor at MCCCW. “They used many of the tools that we learned during class to build multiple characters that represent Christmas in the best ways.”

The festivities began with women at the facility gathering outside, greeted by the sounds of cheerful holiday music. Anticipation built as the tree was lit, illuminating the area with a sense of unity and joy. The evening continued with a spirited caroling session, featuring classics like “Frosty the Snowman” and “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” all while snacking on cookies and hot cocoa.

This inaugural event was part of the Washington State Department of Corrections’ Washington Way program, inspired by Norwegian correctional principles of dynamic security and normalization. The idea was brought to life by Jessica Lacy, a staff member at MCCCW, who wanted to create an opportunity for connection and community during the holiday season.

“The holiday season can be challenging for many individuals, not just those who are incarcerated,” said Lacy. “Our goal is to help normalize life for the population before their reentry back into society. Preparing these individuals for their reintegration with events that promote normalization will ultimately benefit everyone involved.”

Thanks to Lacy’s idea and the Washington Way team at MCCCW implementation, all of the items for the event were donated by staff.

Lacy also invited Sgt. Main of the Port Orchard Police Department as the evening’s guest speaker. Sgt. Main addressed the significance of a police officer speaking to a group of justice-impacted women, delivering a heartfelt message that emphasized unity, hope, and shared humanity.

“It was cool to have our guest speaker come in and be vulnerable with us about her story and for some of us we could relate,” said Ashley Fischer, a TRAC student at MCCCW.

For many, the evening symbolized more than just holiday cheer; it was a testament to the power of collaboration, compassion, and the importance of creating a sense of normalcy within correctional facilities.

“Our individuals may be burdened with a great amount of trauma and sadness, but by helping them heal and connect through the principles of Washington Way while they are living at Mission Creek, the hope is that they can start or continue the process of healing, said Courtney Robbins, the Correctional Program Manager at MCCCW. “While focusing on healing and normalization, this improves the professional relationships between staff and individuals, changing the correctional culture for the better.

As the women joined together in song and laughter, the event underscored the transformative potential of initiatives like the Washington Way, making this a holiday celebration to remember.

Festive Cheer at Clallam Bay Corrections Center: A Winter Fair to Remember

Clallam Bay Corrections Center (CBCC) embraced the holiday spirit with its annual Winter Fair, bringing joy, connection, and creativity to all who participated. This December, incarcerated individuals from both the Safe Harbor and General Population units had the opportunity to spend meaningful time with their loved ones during a day filled with crafts, laughter, and cherished memories.

The visiting room buzzed with activity as participants created handmade picture frames, stuffed animals, and festive stockings. The highlight of the day was the keepsake ornaments, personalized with photos to commemorate the event. These ornaments served as a heartfelt reminder of the special moments shared during the fair.

The atmosphere was filled with warmth, with smiling faces and the sound of laughter echoing throughout the room. The Winter Fair was a beautiful example of how CBCC fosters connection and community, making the holiday season brighter for everyone involved.

A Day of Connection and Creativity: Fall Affair at Olympic Corrections Center

The Olympic Corrections Center (OCC) recently hosted a heartwarming Fall Affair event designed to bring together incarcerated individuals and their loved ones for a day of bonding, creativity, and entertainment. Unlike many family-centered events, this affair was tailored specifically for adults, creating a unique atmosphere where attendees could connect on a deeper level without the presence of children.

Fall Affair transformed OCC into a lively venue filled with laughter, music, games and artistic expression. Guests and their incarcerated family members gathered in a decorated common area, where music and fall colors set the tone for the day.

The event kicked off with a pumpkin painting activity, a nod to the autumn season that encouraged creativity and collaboration. Tables were lined with vibrant paints, brushes, glitter and pumpkins of all shapes and sizes. Attendees and their loved ones worked side by side, designing everything from spooky faces to abstract patterns.

This activity was an opportunity to engage in a shared experience that bridged the gap of physical separation.

“These holiday-based events are important to me because we get to see our loved ones,” says Travis Marshall, incarcerated individual. “The arts and crafts behind it allow for good hearted quality time which is more than you would see in a standard visitation.”

No event is complete without good food, and the Fall Affair delivered with a taco bar lunch that was as vibrant as the day’s activities. Attendees were treated to an array of fillings, toppings, and sauces, allowing them to craft their perfect taco. Sharing a meal together added an intimate and familiar element to the day, creating moments of connection that felt both normal and extraordinary.

The highlight of the Fall Affair was undoubtedly the live talent show, where incarcerated individuals took to the stage to showcase their musical and vocal abilities. The performances ranged from soulful ballads to upbeat electric guitar renditions, with each act met by enthusiastic applause.

The talent show revealed the hidden skills of many participants and offered a glimpse into their emotional worlds. Songs chosen often carried themes of hope, love, and resilience, resonating deeply with the audience.

The Fall Affair at OCC was an opportunity for incarcerated individuals and their loved ones to strengthen their relationships in an environment of creativity and celebration. By painting pumpkins, enjoying live music, and sharing a meal, attendees were able to reconnect in meaningful ways that transcend the barriers of incarceration.

As the day ended, the warmth and joy lingered, leaving everyone with cherished memories and a renewed sense of connection. The Fall Affair is a reminder that even in challenging circumstances, opportunities for togetherness and joy can still flourish.

“I believe everyone needs something positive to look forward to in life. It could be something as little as winning bingo and the prize is shower gel or something as big as being released from prison as you prepare to enter society with loved ones by your side.” Says Elena Friesz, Corrections Specialist.

A Holiday Send-Off: Christmas Caroling at WCCW

The holiday spirit was in full swing at Washington Corrections Center for Women (WCCW) on December 13th, as staff and residents came together for a festive Christmas carol sing-along in the gymnasium. Staff from WCCW and DOC headquarters even came in on their days off to spread holiday cheer, making the event extra special.

Throughout the day, different living units took turns enjoying classic holiday songs like Feliz Navidad and Frosty the Snowman. Adding to the merriment, staff dressed as Santa Claus and the Grinch, while former DOC Secretary Cheryl Strange—spending one of her final days with the department—joined in with her guitar, making the event even more memorable.

The gym echoed with joyful voices as the women sang their hearts out, celebrating the season together. To top it off, everyone received a sweet holiday treat—candy canes—to mark the occasion. It was a day of music, laughter, and community, a perfect way to celebrate the season and honor former Secretary Strange’s lasting impact.

Spreading Holiday Cheer: Incarcerated Individuals Support Toys for Tots

This holiday season, incarcerated individuals at Airway Heights Corrections Center (AHCC) and Coyote Ridge Corrections Center (CRCC) found meaningful ways to give back to their communities through the Marine Corps Toys for Tots Foundation. Their efforts brought smiles to local children and families.

At AHCC, a fundraiser hosted by incarcerated individuals raised funds to support Spokane-area Toys for Tots, helping bring holiday cheer to families in need. Meanwhile, at CRCC, incarcerated individuals poured creativity and care into crafting wooden toys and jewelry boxes, contributing to the organization’s efforts to serve over 1,100 local families.

Each year, incarcerated individuals, staff, and volunteers work together to support Toys for Tots, inspired by the opportunity to ensure children experience the joy of play and the magic of the holiday season. This collaboration demonstrates the power of giving and imagination, bringing hope and happiness to the community.

Holiday Cheer Takes Center Stage at Cedar Creek Corrections Center

Cedar Creek Corrections Center (CCCC) embraced the holiday spirit with a family-friendly winter event on December 14th, offering an unforgettable experience for the loved ones of incarcerated individuals. The gymnasium was transformed into a winter wonderland, featuring twinkling lights, festive decorations, and activities designed to bring families closer during the holiday season.

“The holiday season presents a unique challenge for incarcerated individuals and their loved ones,” said Seanne Schlund, the Community Partnership Program Coordinator at CCCC. “These events offer incarcerated participants a sense of normalcy and they play a vital role in family reunification. These events allow for connection and positive shared experiences that can fortify bonds strained by incarceration.”

Children delighted in decorating sugar cookies and meeting Santa and Mrs. Claus, who spread joy and posed for keepsake photos. A large, beautifully adorned Christmas tree stood at the heart of the event, surrounded by presents tailored for each attending family, ensuring every guest left with a smile.

“I strive to create a supportive and humane environment through a variety of activities that underscore the importance of these family connections,” said Schlund. “Even within the walls of a correctional facility, joy and hope can be cultivated, making a positive difference for all involved.”

The star attraction, however, was a historic first for the Washington State Department of Corrections—a visit from two real reindeer inside the facility’s secure fence line. Families marveled at the majestic animals, creating a magical and rare experience that underscored the holiday’s spirit of wonder and unity. This special event highlighted the dedication of CCCC staff to fostering connections and creating meaningful moments for incarcerated individuals and their families during the holiday season.

Honoring Faith and Tradition: Feast Day of Our Lady of Guadalupe

Incarcerated individuals at Stafford Creek Corrections Center (SCCC) and Coyote Ridge Corrections Center (CRCC) came together last month to celebrate the Feast Day of Our Lady of Guadalupe, a significant religious and cultural event for many. The celebrations included a special Mass, traditional songs, and music, creating a space for reflection, faith, and community.

Religious coordinators across Washington State prisons play a vital role in ensuring that those in custody can maintain their spiritual and cultural connections. These traditions not only provide comfort and meaning but also support personal growth and successful reentry. The Feast Day celebrations at SCCC and CRCC were a testament to the importance of faith and fellowship, bringing hope and unity during the holiday season.

Spreading Holiday Cheer: The HOPE Team Celebrates at WCCW

The HOPE team at Washington Corrections Center for Women (WCCW) embraced the holiday spirit with a festive gathering filled with sweet treats and music. The group, formed by incarcerated individuals to partner with medical and custody staff in supporting aging and medically vulnerable individuals, took time to celebrate the season together.

The celebration featured cookie decorating, warm coffee, and heartfelt conversations, creating a space for connection and joy. Christmas songs filled the air as the group came together in the spirit of camaraderie and care.

The HOPE team’s mission of advocacy and support was reflected in their holiday gathering—demonstrating that even small moments of joy can make a big impact in building community and lifting spirits.