The Wealth of Wellness program at Stafford Creek Corrections Center (SCCC) takes a groundbreaking approach to rehabilitation, focusing on holistic wellness for the incarcerated population. Developed and led by incarcerated individuals, the program addresses five critical areas: physical, mental, intra- and interpersonal, community collective, and financial wellness. By combining these elements, Wealth of Wellness fosters personal growth, reduces violence, and equips participants with tools to build healthier lives. The initiative actively collaborates with the facility’s medical team, mental health professionals, and patient care navigators, ensuring comprehensive support.
“Ms. Lynch, the Director of Nursing here at SCCC, has been involved with Wealth of Wellness from the very beginning,” said Robert, a wellness coach and co-creator of the Wealth of Wellness program. “She is always supportive and encouraging. You can see she genuinely cares about people. She’s a wonderful mentor and sponsor.”
The program began as an idea between two incarcerated individuals at the Washington State Penitentiary in Walla Walla two years ago. Since then, it has grown into a dynamic movement at Stafford Creek, featuring workshops and quarterly events. Participants engage in activities like blood pressure checks, consultations with infectious prevention nurses, and discussions on chronic care concerns.
“This program has come so far but none of it is possible without the support from our sponsors in the facility,” said Donald Bango, a wellness coach and co-creator of the Wealth of Wellness program. “Ms. Medina and Mr. Valez from mental health and Mr. Wakefield from recreation played a huge part in us seeing this success. We also owe a huge thank you to Mr. Van Ogle, our Associate Superintendent of Operations. He gave us the springboard to launch at last year’s violence prevention event.”
Beyond physical health, the program emphasizes emotional and interpersonal growth through workshops that explore root causes of violence, effective communication, and emotional resilience. These efforts have led to innovations such as an on-site urgent care system, which has improved access to care and reduced false medical emergencies.
“The most important part is the mental health aspect,” said Robert. “It's about learning how to deal with real life problems, sharing emotions and growing from them to become better people.”
Wealth of Wellness creates a space for incarcerated individuals to have a voice in their well-being, offering perspectives that drive meaningful change. By addressing mental health, teaching emotional intelligence, and fostering a sense of community, the program seeks to break cycles of incarceration and pave the way for successful reintegration. Through collaboration and compassion, Wealth of Wellness is transforming lives and redefining what rehabilitation can look like.