Rice County Probation Officers Kelli Cline and Willow Schafer were recently recognized for their dedicated service to justice-involved women, receiving the MACCAC Presidents Award. The honor was announced following a nomination from their supervisor, Community Corrections Supervisor Tracy Zabel, who lauded the duo for their remarkable work in a statement by Rice County. Zabel's nomination underscored the officers' commitment to supervising female clients with a combination of evidence-based practices and a trauma-informed approach.
Leading Rice County Community Corrections’ Gender Responsive Unit, Cline and Schafer put emphasis on the power of relationship building with their clientele. The officers have facilitated the discovery of untapped strengths in the women they serve, guiding them through personal development and achievements beyond the criminal justice system. "It’s very rewarding that we have the opportunity to build relationships with our clientele to aid in their success outside of the justice system and beyond," Schafer told Rice County. Their work underscores an ongoing dialogue about gender-specific needs within the corrections field, addressing issues like domestic violence, abuse, and the impact of trauma.
With their approach rooted in gender-responsive and trauma-informed policies, Cline and Schafer employ strategies that recognize the unique histories and challenges faced by women in the criminal justice system. Utilizing an evidence-based assessment tool, they tailor supervision, interventions, and strategies to the specific needs of each individual. According to a resource guide from the Council of State Governments, such practices take into account varied experiences related to domestic violence, poverty, mental illness, and substance use disorders.
Concerned with more than just legal compliance, the agents ensure that their clients' basic needs—including housing, finances, and relationships—are being met. They consistently aim to connect clients with essential resources and services when those needs are unfulfilled. Cline and Schafer also run two gender-responsive, cognitive behavior-based programs for small groups, allowing for focused attention on issues pertinent to the women under their care. "They provide hope and accountability with compassion," Zabel expressed in her nomination, highlighting the officers’ dedication as described in the announcement.
The acknowledgment of Cline and Schafer's efforts sends a message of encouragement to probation professionals everywhere, showcasing the significant impact a tailored, compassionate approach can have on those navigating the justice system. Rice County’s award-winning probation officers continue to instill hope and drive change for the women they serve each day, representing a model of correctional supervision worth emulating.
