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Horses help show staff appreciation at CCWF

October 19, 2024

Staff appreciation day at CCWF featured horses.

Central California Women’s Facility (CCWF) in Chowchilla recently held a staff appreciation and team-building event featuring horses.

Watch the video (story continues below):

“For a lot of people, this is the first time they’ve seen a horse up close. It helps bring joy to everyone at work, especially in this environment.”
K. Van Buren, library technical assistant

Physical Education Coach G. Martinelli said the event was a way to show staff how much their hard work is appreciated.

“We’ll be able to ride the ponies, pet the ponies, and learn a little bit more about the horses,” Martinelli said. “It was a very positive experience.”

A CDCR coach sits on a horse. — Coach Martinelli

Horse trainer S. Mason has been giving horse lessons for five decades.

“I know the impact horses can have on every individual,” Mason said. “They’re wonderful creatures and they have a lot to give.”

Horses provide a break for staff

Library Technical Assistant K. Van Buren said the staff appreciation day was a great experience.

“It just brings a kind of joy (and) camaraderie. I think that’s what makes it so nice,” she said. “For a lot of people, this is the first time they’ve seen a horse up close. It helps bring joy to everyone at work, especially in this environment.”

Correctional Officer B. Turner said it was a great way to visit coworkers you may not otherwise see very often.

Petting a horse at Central California Women's Facility. — Officer B. Turner

Library assistant on a horse. — Officer B. Turner

“It’s a time to come down here and socialize with everybody,” he said. “You get to see people you rarely get to see (because) they are coming from a different yard or building or your office, whatever it is. (This) is a good way to take your mind off (work), just for a little bit. You just need that break.”

Van Buren said events like these are important for improving overall staff morale.

“(Staff) can feel appreciated and just have (a little time) to have fun,” she said. “Especially when it comes to petting horses.”

Video by Chris Medina, director, TV communications center (specialist)
Story by Don Chaddock, Inside CDCR editor