Collaborating to help offenders transition back into their communities was the theme for the OWDS graduation held at the Kansas Department of Children and Family Services (DCF) Learning Center in Topeka January 8.

Secretary Roberts and DCF Secretary Phyllis Gilmore addressed the 14 graduates representing the KDOC, DCF, Wichita Area Technical College, MIRROR Inc.'s federal halfway house in Wichita. and a Topeka-based truck driving school. Both agency officials emphasized the importance of developing and maintaining partnerships with those groups and individuals who serve similar populations.

Graduates presented action plans to their supervisors and managers to share their recommendations on implementing services based on their intensive OWDS training, said Jim Chastain, OWDS program manager. The presentations largely focused on how to work together to create employment opportunities for offenders.

"You all did a tremendous job and should be very proud of your accomplishment," Chastain told the group of graduates. "Congratulations!"