The Orange County Probation Department (OC Probation) celebrated the 25th annual Pretrial, Probation, and Parole Supervision (PPPS) Week during July 21-July 27, 2024. This weeklong event, recognized nationally, celebrates the dedication and critical contributions of over 90,000 community corrections professionals across the United States. This year’s theme: Wellness Unveiled: Navigating the Journey underscores the importance of employee wellness in view of the demands of the vital work performed by community corrections staff daily.
The Orange County Probation Department’s 1000-member workforce serves the community daily by ensuring that those who come under their care and supervision receive the services and resources necessary to effect positive changes in their lives. Probation spans public safety and social services, rehabilitating supervised individuals and preparing them for successful reentry using individualized, evidence-based strategies that changes behaviors and lives.
Chief Daniel Hernandez stated, “It is humbling to see the outcomes of the work of our dedicated staff. Each member of the department supports our mission to inspire and support change in those we supervise. Through the efforts of our staff, combined with the work of our community partners, we see our clients change their lives and accomplish their goals.”
Recognition events were held throughout the week acknowledging the expertise, compassion and commitment each staff member exercises in their work. Additionally, the Probation Department’s Peer Support program, facilitated by employees who receive specific training to assist peers during difficult times, hosted several wellness fairs to encourage health and wellness amongst the employees.
Deputy Probation Officer Gelene Gutierrez, a peer support team member, noted “Peer Support is important as we work in an environment that is high intensity. We need to have support within our department with our peers as they are the unique group of people who truly understand and empathize with what we go through on an everyday basis. Peer Support aids those who need it without any judgement”.
Chief Hernandez added, “I’m very excited to celebrate the great work of all of our employees. This year’s theme of “Wellness Unveiled” highlights the need for staff who work in such demanding and sometimes stressful environments to take care of themselves, each other and ultimately, when we do, we can provide the best services possible to our clients.”
About the Orange County Probation Department
As a public safety agency, the Orange County Probation Department serves the community using effective, research supported rehabilitation practices and collaborative partnerships to successfully resocialize justice involved individuals. The Probation Department is proud to serve the Orange County community. It is dedicated to continuous improvement, searching out and applying “effective and research supported practices" to assist justice involved youth, their families, and adults to successfully navigate and successfully complete probation. Further, the Probation Department assists the criminal court system through investigations, probation reports and community supervision of thousands of adult and juvenile clients on court-ordered probation or in diversion programs. The Department operates the Orange County Juvenile Hall, and two camps for youth. In addition, the Department operates two Youth Reporting Centers serving North and Central Orange County.
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