WA DOC - Olympia Reentry Center

You can support your loved ones at Olympia Work Release on InmateAid, if you have any immediate questions contact the facility directly at 360-586-2731.

At WA DOC - Olympia Reentry Center's state corrections facility, well-behaved inmates can join a work release program, getting regular jobs in the public sector during the day. Depending on the rules, they might work weekdays and go home at night, serving their sentences only on weekends. Some stay in halfway houses or at home when they're not working. As they get closer to getting out, they might switch to reintegration programs and could even get full-time jobs when they are released.

This program has perks like better chances of finding a job after getting out, finding work faster, making more money afterward, and being less likely to go back to jail. Olympia Work Release wants to help inmates succeed in getting back into society.

The Olympia Reentry Center, overseen by the Washington State Department of Corrections (DOC), provides a transitional environment for both male and female inmates. Recognizing the critical first six to 12 months post-release, the DOC prioritizes initiatives that foster successful community reentry, aligning with its commitment to public safety and community well-being.

Integral to this approach are programs and resources aimed at addressing substance abuse, facilitating employment opportunities, and strengthening family connections. Residents benefit from onsite substance abuse treatment programs, while a dedicated Worksource Representative assists with employment needs, underscoring the focus on holistic support and rehabilitation.

At the core of the work release program is its role as a bridge between prison life and community integration. Participants engage in activities geared towards transition, such as securing employment, reconnecting with family, and honing essential life skills under supervision. This structured environment fosters personal growth and equips offenders with the tools for a safe and productive lifestyle beyond release.

The value of work release programs is evident in their positive impact on offender outcomes. Those who complete the program are more likely to maintain employment, stable housing, and fulfill legal financial obligations. Research conducted by the Washington State Institute for Public Policy highlights the program's favorable cost-benefit ratio, emphasizing its efficacy in promoting successful reintegration.

Eligibility for the program hinges on specific criteria, including good behavior and available bed space. Participants are expected to adhere to program rules, including actively seeking employment, undergoing substance abuse testing, and attending therapy and programming. Compliance ensures continued participation, while failure to abide by rules may result in sanctions or termination.

Overall, the operations of the Olympia Work Release center are on empowering offenders to secure employment, access treatment, reunite with family and develop essential life skills. By providing a supportive environment and comprehensive programming, the facility aims to facilitate successful reentry into the community and reduce recidivism rates.