Barracks Behind Bars: Don’t Turn Around

 For the past several weeks, you’ve received a glimpse behind the scenes of several veteran-specific programs from across the country. You’ve also seen why these programs are important. In our final look at veteran-specific programs, we turn to Ryan Yoder, Statewide Veterans Coordinator for the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections.

In his own words, Yoder says, “First and foremost, I believe that it's our duty to do everything we can to help those that have served our country. And just because an individual gets themselves in a situation where they get incarcerated does not mean that [we] as a society should turn our backs.”

As state coordinator, Yoder has been involved in the development of numerous programs. His main message to any jurisdiction that doesn’t have a program is to go out and start one. He outlines his approach in the National Institute of Corrections document titled Barracks Behind Bars II: In Veterans-Specific Housing Units, Veterans Help Veterans Help Themselves . “Don’t allow the opportunity to serve veterans pass you by,” Yoder says. “Take the initiative, be the first organization, the first prison, the first jail in your state to serve our inmate veteran population. I guarantee that others will follow.”

By focusing on support from stakeholders at every level of government and in the community, Yoder has been able to develop inclusive programming that invites all veterans to participate, regardless of discharge status or even length of sentence.

“It goes back to my philosophy,” Yoder says. “Am I supposed to turn my back on somebody because they have a long sentence? You’re still a veteran, you still served our country, and you still deserve our respect. That’s why I consider every veteran.”

In our final audio clip, you will hear Yoder talk about why veterans programs are worth a look. Listen as he explains these programs’ ultimate reward. Then click the link to read Yoder’s story for yourself by downloading a copy of Barracks Behind Bars II.

For information about how to initiate or expand veterans programs in your own area, download our entire series of veteran publications, which cover law enforcement, the courts, and jails. https://info.nicic.gov/jiv