PA Department of Corrections @CorrectionsPA

SCI Somerset’s Facility Emergency Response Team (FERT) recently participated in a unique hands-on training opportunity in partnership with the Johnstown Fire Department. On June 12, the SCI Somerset FERT traveled to the DOC’s training facility to work alongside professional firefighters and enhance their emergency response skills. The training, coordinated by CFSI Hill in collaboration with former SCI Somerset Safety Manager Capriotti and Fire Chief McCann, included instruction on patient rescue and extrication, hose line management, and operation of Scott Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) equipment. Multiple fire crews participated in the training, along with Cambria Box 11, a volunteer-based service that provides hydration, cooling equipment, tents, refreshments, and other support resources to emergency responders during incidents. Notably, Box 11 was founded in part by SCI Somerset FERT member CA Jess Kelly. The Somerset team is grateful for the opportunity to train alongside the Johnstown Fire Department and benefit from their expertise. Partnerships like these strengthen emergency preparedness, enhance teamwork, and help ensure we are ready to respond when needed.

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Our newest group of summer interns recently toured SCI Camp Hill, gaining firsthand insight into the many facets of correctional operations. As part of the visit, interns saw the Classification and Diagnostics Center, compared an older housing unit with a newer, more modern housing unit, met the canine handlers and their pups in the dog program, learned about religious services offered through the chapel, and toured the education building. The DOC Summer Internship Program provides students with valuable hands-on learning experiences and exposure to the diverse career opportunities available within the Department.

Swing by the upcoming SCI Mercer Job Fair and chat with PADOC recruiters about exciting opportunities in corrections. Your next career move starts here! 📆 June 30 ⏰ 12-6 PM 📍 PA CareerLink® Mercer County, 217 W State St, Sharon, PA 16146 Stop in, ask questions, and see what a career in corrections is all about⤵ pa.gov/agencies/emplo…

PADOC nurses serve in a unique healthcare environment where teamwork, professionalism, and patient care remain at the center of the mission. Explore a career with stability, competitive pay, and growth opportunities. Take the next step and apply today: pa.gov/docjobs

June is Men’s Health Month, and SCI Chester marked the occasion with a combined awareness event hosted by Certified Peer Specialists on June 17. The event, centered around the theme “We Are More Alike Than Different,” focused on breaking the stigma around emotional struggles while promoting personal resilience, healthy lifestyle choices, stress management, and coping strategies. Participants engaged in breakout sessions including yoga, focused breathing, a community mural, and a resource area offering informational materials on a range of mental health topics. The event provided meaningful opportunities for learning, reflection, and wellness, and was well received by all who attended.

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Happy #FathersDay from SCI Pine Grove #PrisonPups Brock! Brock, who is training through @Newhopedogs, posed for this special Father’s Day photo, complete with a black tie. 🐾

Congratulations to Corrections Officer Peter Soroka, SCI Mahanoy's Employee of the Month for June! On April 14, Officer Soroka demonstrated exceptional professionalism, quick thinking, and composure when responding to a medical emergency involving an incarcerated individual engaging in self-harm. Upon arriving on scene, he quickly secured the situation, assisted in controlling the bleeding, and ensured the individual’s safety until additional staff arrived — actions that reflect his commitment to safety, professionalism, and the well-being of those in our care. Thank you, Officer Soroka, for your exceptional work and congratulations on this well-deserved recognition! 📸 Corrections Officer Peter Soroka and Major Dennis Reichert

SCI Waymart recently hosted a two-hour informational session on the Pennsylvania commutation process for approximately 70 incarcerated individuals, along with additional staff members. Organized by Reentry Parole Agent Jessica George, the event aimed to increase awareness of the commutation process and support informed, thoughtful planning for those eligible for consideration. Supt. Mark Wahl shared insights from his experience with commutation cases, offering valuable perspective and encouraging meaningful discussion. The session was presented by Pennsylvania Department of Corrections Pardon Case Specialist Matthew Johanson and provided education on eligibility requirements, application procedures, and preparation guidance, along with an interactive question-and-answer session.

During a recent cell search at SCI Phoenix, Sgt. McCusker and his K9 partner Bia discovered 11 strips of suspected K2-soaked paper hidden in the binding of a notepad. K2 is a synthetic drug that can lead to severe reactions like rapid heart rate, seizures, and even fatal overdoses. Keeping K2 and other drugs out of our facilities is an important step toward creating a safe environment for staff, visitors, and the incarcerated population. Nice work, Sgt. McCusker and K9 Bia!

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SCI Chester recently hosted its annual Day of Responsibility event, bringing together staff, community partners, and incarcerated individuals to encourage accountability, personal growth, and positive decision-making. Participants heard impactful messages from guest speakers who shared personal experiences and insights, inspiring reflection on the consequences of choices and the importance of taking responsibility. Through meaningful discussion and engagement, attendees were encouraged to consider their responsibilities to themselves, their families, and their communities. The Day of Responsibility reflects SCI Chester’s ongoing commitment to rehabilitation, successful reentry, and helping individuals build productive futures.

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Pittsburgh CCC staff members, along with community members and reentrants, participated in the Pittsburgh Highmark Walk for a Healthy Community on May 30. Team Pittsburgh CCC raised more than $400 in support of Gwen's Girls, a Pittsburgh-based nonprofit dedicated to empowering girls and young women through holistic, gender-responsive programs, educational opportunities, and enriching experiences.

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Swing by the upcoming SCI Greene Job Fair and chat with PADOC recruiters about exciting opportunities in corrections. Your next career move starts here! 📆June 23 ⏰12-6 PM 📍PA CareerLink® Greene County, 200 Greene Plaza Waynesburg, PA 15370 Stop in, ask questions, and see what a career in corrections is all about⤵ pa.gov/agencies/emplo…

Looking for a nursing career with purpose and opportunity? Every day is a chance to care, lead, and make a real impact. Hear from our staff about what makes this work meaningful and rewarding. Explore a career with stability, competitive pay, and growth opportunities. Take the next step and apply today: pa.gov/docjobs

SCI Waymart recognized Mental Health Awareness Month by hosting its inaugural Mental Health & Wellness Day on May 20. Planned and led by Certified Peer Specialists (CPS), the event welcomed 230 incarcerated participants and focused on education, personal growth, wellness, and hope. Throughout the day, participants attended presentations on positive psychology, trauma awareness, coping skills, wellness resources, and available programs at SCI Waymart. Guest speakers from Scranton Counseling Center and NAMI shared valuable insights on mental health, recovery, and wellness, while CPS presenters and fellow participants offered personal stories of resilience and growth. The event reinforced the importance of seeking support, building healthy coping strategies, and recognizing that positive change and personal growth are always possible.

Introducing Henry, the newest #PrisonPups in SCI Camp Hill’s HOPE Dogs pack! Henry is a 1-year-old Mastiff mix with a big personality, and an even bigger head to match. He loves people and enjoys spending time with his handler, especially relaxing in the sun during his one-on-one playtime. After a rough start in life, Henry is learning new skills while receiving obedience and socialization training from his incarcerated handler. While he prefers to be the only pet in the home, he has plenty of love to give the right family. 🐾

SCI Forest recently welcomed 48 nursing students from Venango Technology Center for an educational tour of the facility. As part of an ongoing recruitment initiative, members of the Medical Department provided information about careers in correctional healthcare, followed by a question-and-answer session and a tour of the medical department. During the visit, students learned about the medication distribution process for incarcerated individuals and received a brief tour of the pharmacy. They also toured the infirmary, where staff members discussed the types of medical conditions treated there, as well as the purpose of the POC cells. The final stop was the triage area, where students were introduced to the day-to-day operations of healthcare in a correctional setting and learned about the wide range of medical conditions that can be monitored and managed on site. Throughout the tour, students gained insight into the unique aspects of providing healthcare in a correctional environment and how it differs from healthcare in the community.

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SCI Forest recently hosted a successful blood drive in partnership with Community Blood Bank. A total of 58 employees volunteered to donate, with 44 successful donations, potentially helping up to 132 individuals in need. The event was coordinated by the Wellness Committee but reflected a true facility-wide effort, with staff members from all departments participating either as donors or by assisting with event operations. To support donors, staff volunteers contributed fresh fruit and homemade cookies, while the Employee Association provided subs and a $50 gift card raffle for participants.

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During the month of May Pittsburgh CCC staff members wore green to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and show support for mental health awareness. Reentrants also participated in a mental health self-reflection project, encouraging personal growth and awareness of mental well-being.

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Students from Southern Columbia High School recently visited SCI Coal Township to learn about careers in corrections and gain insight into the operations of a correctional facility. During the program, staff members from several departments provided presentations on security operations, inmate programs, special response teams, safety initiatives, gang intelligence, and employment opportunities within the Department of Corrections. Students also had the opportunity to tour a mock cell in the facility’s training room, offering a firsthand look at the correctional environment. The event provided students with valuable information about the diverse career paths available in corrections while highlighting the important work performed by staff members across the facility.

Looking to build a stronger culinary team? Join us for an informative webinar to learn how your business can connect with motivated, job-ready talent. This session is ideal for business owners, restaurant operators, and hiring leaders seeking innovative workforce solutions. 📅 Wednesday, July 8, 2026 ⏰ 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM Save the date and reserve your spot today!