Putnamville staff celebrate recent RWI graduates

The Putnamville Correctional Facility recently celebrated the graduates of the “Recovery While Incarcerated” (RWI) program.

RWI is an improvement plan which is aimed to improve the quality of recovery services provided for incarcerated individuals.

Staff and families came together to celebrate the dedication each offender has shown in completing the program.

The graduation also featured keynote speaker Brian Kendrick, as well as invited RWI Director Gary Pridemore, program counselors, Warden Brian Smith, Deputy Warden Tim Phegley, Deputy Warden Keith Hartzel and others.

“Our program counselors and facility staff do an amazing job each day to ensure our clients are receiving the tools needed to live a sober lifestyle,” said Pridemore. “Addiction is one of the largest contributing factors to why people committed the crimes they committed; if we can continue to hit the issue head on, I believe the RWI offenders and IDOC will have immeasurable success.”

Once the ceremonies concluded, offenders and their families were welcomed by staff to continue the celebration. Some incarcerated individuals made artwork as a representation of their path from addiction to life in recovery. Drawings were voted on by attendees and the winner will be announced at a later date.

All in attendance were also invited to visit with their loved ones and enjoy punch and snacks.