Awards and Appreciation, Beyond the Badge

California Men’s Colony hosts staff Family Day

August 13, 2026

California Men’s Colony (CMC) in San Luis Obispo hosted staff Family Day, offering families a closer look at the institution.

The event offered families an afternoon of food, activities and learning more about where their family members work.

Departments throughout CMC came together to host booths, demonstrations and activities for guests of all ages. Music played throughout the event as families enjoyed a barbecue lunch, games, face painting, temporary tattoos, a bounce house and other activities.

Staff prepare chili dogs for Family Day at California Men's Colony in San Luis Obispo.

Local businesses and community organizations also participated, adding resources and experiences for staff and their families.

The booths gave families a chance to meet CMC employees and learn about the wide range of work performed across the institution. Each participating group brought something different to the day, from children’s activities and giveaways to informational displays and hands-on demonstrations.

CDW (A) Edward Brown hot dogs. — *Acting CDW Edward Brown passes out hot dogs.*

CMC offers demonstrations, food, fun

The CMC Fire Department provided a hands-on hose demonstration, while the Crisis Response Team and Investigative Services Unit shared displays highlighting their specialized assignments. Nursing staff offered CPR demonstrations and back-to-school health information, and representatives from Education, Mental Health, Recruitment and other departments explained the programs and services they provide.

Correctional Officer Terry Cook sings the national anthem. — *Officer Terry Cook sings the national anthem.*

CMC staff also worked behind the scenes to prepare and serve lunch during the event. Their effort was one more example of the teamwork making Family Day possible. Employees from different assignments stepped in wherever help was needed.

Several displays focused on wellness and community connections.

Guests could even try the Mental Health team’s relaxation pod.

Meanwhile, the nonprofit Pacific Wildlife Care offered an up-close wildlife viewing experience.

Throughout the afternoon, music and announcements helped keep the event moving. Guided institution tours also gave family members a better understanding of CMC operations, its facilities and the many responsibilities carried out by staff each day.

For many guests, it was their first opportunity to see the workplace they had heard so much about from their loved ones.

Beyond the activities, Family Day gave coworkers an opportunity to meet one another’s families and spend time together outside their usual assignments. The event recognized CMC employees for their hard work and thanked the family members whose support makes that service possible.

“Thank you to every department, employee, volunteer, community partner and local business who contributed to the event. Their combined effort created a welcoming and memorable day for the entire CMC family,” said organizers.

Submitted by Lt. M. Blankenship

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