Community Involvement

Suicide awareness focus of RJD event

Rebels Farm staff member and a horse at a prison.
Rebels Farm was on hand with horses at RJD's first suicide prevention and awareness event.

Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility (RJD) hosted its first Suicide Prevention and Awareness event on September 12.

The event offered information and resources for CDCR staff.

RJD Mental Health invited all staff to attend an informational and informal presentation with Rebels Farm and Crime Victims Coalition. The California Chaplain Corps was also present, as well as resources from Peer Support and the Employee Assistance Program.

Staff from all healthcare disciplines and custodial rankings participated. Taking pictures with therapy horses, attendees also enjoyed food, beverages, goodies, and camaraderie.

RJD aims to take a proactive approach and bring awareness about suicide to all staff.

“We recognize the importance of mental health and work to reduce/eliminate stigmas about talking about our own mental health needs. The stronger our staff are the better we can serve RJD,” according to a statement issued by prison officials.

Written by Sonia A. Bahro, PhD, Chief of Mental Health
and S. Amador, Associate Warden (A), Level III SNY (A and D)

Submitted by Lt. A. Garvey


See more community involvement stories.

Follow CDCR on YouTubeFacebookX (formerly Twitter). Listen to the CDCR Unlocked podcast.