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    Veteran Staff Outreach At SCI Camp Hill 

    As a former corrections officer at the state correctional institution (SCI) at Muncy, I have a deep passion for supporting veteran staff members who continue to serve within Pennsylvania’s State Correctional Institutions. Having walked in their shoes, I understand both the demands of the profession and the importance of ensuring veterans have access to the resources and support they deserve.

    I was honored to participate in two veteran staff outreach events: one at SCI Camp Hill Jan. 28, 2026, and another at the Department of Corrections Central Office on Jan. 29, 2026. These events provided an invaluable opportunity to connect directly with veteran staff and offer counseling, guidance and resources tailored to their needs.

    I am extremely grateful to the executive and upper management teams at these institutions for their commitment to caring for veteran staff. Their willingness to grant gate clearances and provide access was essential to the success of these events. Without their cooperation and support, delivering these critical resources to the men and women working inside our institutions would have presented significant challenges.

    • The impact of the veteran staff outreach event at SCI Camp Hill is reflected by the following outcomes:
    • Ninety face-to-face veteran counseling sessions were conducted on the day of the event.
    • Ten additional face-to-face counseling sessions were completed in the days following the event.
    • Four veteran counseling sessions conducted through staff email correspondence.
    • Three requests from staff spouses for event materials and contact information to share with their veteran spouses.
    • Two staff members expressing interest in volunteering at future veteran events.

    These results demonstrate both the need for and the value of continued veteran outreach within our correctional facilities. I am truly excited and grateful to be part of these successful efforts and look forward to supporting future initiatives that serve those who have served our country.

    Elizabeth Cooper, Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs veterans services specialist