Yakima County Department of Corrections

06/13/2026

Songs, Stories, and Hope Behind the Walls

Yesterday, more than 150 inmates from throughout the Yakima County Department of Corrections had the opportunity to attend a special concert sponsored by the Washington Statewide Reentry Council's Listening Circle Program.

Musician Matt Butler shared powerful songs and personal stories centered on healing, recovery, resilience, and the challenges of rebuilding one's life. His message encouraged reflection, personal growth, and hope for the future.

Following the performance, participants were invited to take part in a Listening Circle discussion, providing an opportunity for meaningful conversation and connection.

YCDOC appreciates the Washington Statewide Reentry Council, Matt Butler, and all those involved in bringing programs like this into our facility. Opportunities that promote self-reflection, accountability, and positive change are an important part of supporting successful reentry and safer communities.

06/03/2026

🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉

06/02/2026

The Yakima County Department of Corrections would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the Junior League of Yakima for their incredible generosity and community support.

The Junior League recently conducted a backpack drive with a goal of collecting 50 backpacks for women transitioning from incarceration back into the community. Thanks to the outstanding support of donors, volunteers, and community members, they exceeded that goal by a wide margin—collecting an incredible 106 backpacks!

These backpacks will be provided to women in our community upon release and contain resources and essential items designed to support a successful transition and help individuals take positive steps forward.

Community partnerships like this demonstrate the power of people coming together to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. We are grateful to the Junior League of Yakima and everyone who contributed to this effort.

Thank you for helping create opportunities, provide hope, and support successful reentry for women in our community.

05/28/2026

At YCDOC, we recognize that personal growth and positive change can begin with opportunity, support, and reflection. Recently, several inmates completed the “Trauma: Hope & Healing” class facilitated by volunteer chaplains who generously dedicate their time and compassion to serving within our facility.

This program focuses on understanding trauma, building resilience, and encouraging healthy pathways toward healing and personal accountability. We appreciate the continued commitment of our volunteer chaplains and community partners who help provide meaningful programs that support rehabilitation and positive change.

Congratulations to all of the participants on completing the course and taking an important step forward.

05/25/2026

05/23/2026

Congratulations to the latest graduates of the Makin’ It Work program at YCDOC! 👏

Makin’ It Work is a 10-session soft skills program designed to help individuals transitioning from incarceration prepare for success in the workplace and community. Through guided discussions, role-playing scenarios, and practical communication exercises, participants learn valuable skills such as problem solving, professionalism, handling criticism appropriately, and building positive relationships.

Programs like this matter. Employment and strong support systems are some of the greatest factors in reducing recidivism and helping individuals build a better future after release.

We are proud of the effort these participants put into completing the program and thankful for the staff, volunteers, and community partners who continue investing in opportunities that support positive change and successful reentry.

Congratulations again to all of the graduates!

05/20/2026

Yesterday, the Yakima County Department of Corrections was proud to participate in LEOSA fi****ms qualifications alongside the Yakima Police Department and Yakima County Sheriff’s Office.

This annual training and qualification is an important opportunity to support retired and former law enforcement professionals who dedicated their careers to serving and protecting our communities. It was great to see agencies across Yakima County come together in support of those who have worn the badge before us.

We appreciate the partnership, professionalism, and camaraderie shared throughout the day and want to thank everyone who assisted with coordinating and facilitating the qualifications.

Thank you to all current and retired law enforcement professionals for your continued commitment and service to our community.