Press Release

RICHMOND — More than two dozen Virginia Department of Corrections employees from Wallens Ridge State Prison and Wise Correctional Unit volunteered this weekend at the 18th annual Remote Area Medical event in Wise.

Organizers were expecting hundreds to attend the event that offered free medical, dental and vision care during its three-day run.

The Commonwealth of Virginia offers eligible employees up to 16 hours of community service leave per year, allowing them to offer their contributions to a voluntary community event. VADOC officers worked Thursday through Sunday from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. securing the medical area.

“As the Remote Area Medical event concludes another successful event in Wise County, the Virginia Department of Corrections would like to thank the many men and women who volunteered their time and energy to this important event,” said VADOC Director Harold Clarke. “Our employees are committed to making our communities safer and making Virginia a better place to live and work.”

VADOC volunteers and offenders from Wise Correctional Unit set up large medical tents as well as seating and additional tent cover that provided shelter during the intermittent weekend rains.

VADOC volunteers greeted and guided patients, provided security, and distributed bottled water.

“We had people there every day, staying busy the whole time. This is a big event and it draws people from everywhere,” said Velisa Stallard of Wallens Ridge State Prison. “We were happy to be able to help.”

If you are interested in joining our team, visit our Careers page.