Debbie mentions the paid holidays and comprehensive health insurance coverage and she says, “I accrue quite a bit of annual leave, and I also have sick family which I've had to utilize as a single parent.” Robert viewed the Department as an opportunity to have a second career, and a second retirement.

And everyone appreciates the increased pay scale. Starting salaries, depending on prior correctional experience and including the 10%-15% incentive pay (available in some areas) and uniform allowance could be as high as $37,000!

But everyone says the greatest benefit is job satisfaction. Paul sums it up: “What I've always wanted to do is help people and do a worthwhile job, and this is definitely it.”