On May 19, SCI Dallas hosted its first Regional Veteran Employee Symposium. SCI Muncy, SCI Frackville, SCI Mahanoy, and SCI Waymart veterans attended the event as well as veterans who work in the Bureau of Community Corrections, Recruitment and Retention, and the local State Police station. More than 15 veteran service organizations were present at the event, offering the opportunity for veteran employees and their families to meet with professionals, educators, and benefit specialists in order to maximize resources available to them. The Pennsylvania Department of Corrections boasts a workforce of more than 6,000 men and women who have served their country in the military.
The symposium was kicked off with a very special guest: DOC Acting Sec. Laurel Harry. She thanked all veterans for their service and emphasized the critical roles they play within the department. Dallas Superintendent Kevin Ransom followed Harry’s opening remarks and reemphasized the importance of veteran staff members’ service and their role in the success at SCI Dallas and the department as a whole.
The event was six months in the making and aimed to emphasize the message: “You’re not alone, we are here for you.” The Veteran Team at Dallas intentionally worked to display this message by connecting their regional veteran staff with veteran service organizations that specifically raised awareness of their benefits and connected them with veteran organizations.
The event was very well attended and served hundreds of local veterans. Crucial connections were made that will improve the quality of life of those who have served the country and Commonwealth. The feedback throughout the day was positive and the veteran staff expressed their sincere appreciation for the DOC’s dedication and appreciation for their service. SCI Dallas expressed their gratitude for all who made this event possible, and all who have served our nation.