The warden for Centre County Correctional facility says work-release programs benefit everyone.

Hayle Bacon has lived five months behind bars.

“Bad decisions, not so great decisions. But it definitely does not define me,” Bacon said.

She was sentenced to up to 23 months at the prison for an Aggravated DUI.

Christopher Schell, Warden of the Centre County Correctional Facility, said “These individuals have done something wrong, doesn’t mean they’re bad humans.”

He said he believes incarceration is an opportunity for rehabilitation.
And says work-release programs help the cause.
With the county, he created an opportunity for 10 inmates to repair a fence for the Undine Fire Department, Lambert Hall, in Bellefonte.

“We got to give them something to be able to have a step up before they get out. Because if not, they’re going to go down the same road,” Schell said.

When Schell started his position in May, only one inmate was on work release.
Now in September, 7 are actively participating and 19 are qualified and working for clearance from the court.
After projects like this, Bacon has a better chance to transition into the workforce.

“We are trying to make our way back into the community as good citizens,” Bacon said.

And while she works in an orange uniform, she hopes to gain support from the community.
“We’re proving ourselves right now. So us being out here, we have cars driving by and they’re looking. But I believe it’s a good thing for them to see that we’re out here trying to make a difference,” Bacon said.

And Schell is working right beside her.

“I don’t want any staff that I send out on a detail like this, if I don’t do it first myself; lead by example,” Schell said.

Schell said he considers the project a success and plans to form another community work release program in the near future.