Coyote Ridge, Inmates give back

May 2025

By: Katherine Trowbridge

Just some of the unique pieces donated to the live auction by CRCC's incarcerated individals.

Coyote Ride inmates do a variety of things from school to the arts in order to ensure they are on the right track to making a successful reentry into society.

Thanks to the vision of the camp Superintendent, Supervisor Aaron Jones, unit Supervisor Stephanie Schneider CRCC was able to bring together the talents of incarcerated individuals with the generosity of the Connell Community. 

Working with incarcerated individuals from CRCC’s main facility, camp, and the Walla Walla State Penitentiary scouting for individuals’ talent. Each of the participating incarcerated individuals were “eager and excited to create something that would contribute to helping the community.” 

The art and furniture donated to the North Franklin Heritage Museum’s Dinner and Auction, held on Thursday, May 14, was exceptional - made special and donated with pride by these individuals who, despite their circumstances, chose to give back.

Speaking on behalf of the incarcerated individuals, Lorena Charron shared, “Each item represents more than just artistic ability. It represents hope, growth and the desire to contribute to something greater than themselves.” She added that the inmates opted to donate the proceeds from their items to Palouse Junction High School (75%) and to the North Franklin Heritage Museum (25%). 

A unique portrait of Martin Luther King Jr.

Items included furniture crafted from donated wine barrels, paintings made from coffee grounds (featuring a Martin Luther King portrait made from coffee and coffee grounds only), and a quilt stitched with care. 

The collaboration came about almost by fate as CRCC presented their idea to give back to the chamber board and, it so happened, the museum was planning a special fundraiser event and auction so they collaborated forces. A silent auction featured a variety of pieces from CRCC and larger furniture pieces and the quilt were auctioned to kick off the live auction event of the evening.

Charron stated, “We’re not only supporting these institutions, but also reinforcing the idea that rehabilitation is not about serving time, it’s about preparing for the future. One day these individuals who created these works will one day return to society, they will be our neighbors, co-workers, and members of our community. By fostering opportunities like this, we help them build skills, confidence, and a sense of purpose, so that when  they walk out the doors, they walk into a future where they can contribute meaningfully. Coyote Ridge Corrections Center is committed to strengthening ties with the city. We believe in second chances, the power of creativity and the importance of community support.”

She told those who would take the items home that “You’re not just getting art, you’re investing in lives and futures and community ties.” 

 The incarcerated individuals chose Palouse Junction High School specifically to donate to because they wanted to impact the lives of these students, providing them with a better future than they themselves took so that they wouldn’t need to end up where they are.

Guests talk around the room while bidding on the silent auction items.

Les Savitch was excited to take home this giant piggy bank from the silent auction.

“We’re incredibly grateful for the amazing support from our community and Coyote Ridge. The silent auction was a tremendous success, and the generosity we’ve witnessed will significantly aid Palouse Junction High School and our students,” Brian Moore, North Franklin School District Superintendent, said, “Thank you to everyone who participated and supported our students.” 

Principal George Farrah expressed, “Basically it was because the inmates don’t want to see my students end up there, and they thought it was a great idea to donate, which is going to go to really good use.” Farrah shared that the donation will really be beneficial for the school's activities next year. He is looking forward to bringing in guest speakers, expanding their cooking classes, and taking the kids on field trips. 

“The donation is basically our budget, Farrah said, “It’s going to open a bunch of doors - giving us some breathing room for next year.” 

Farrah added, “I was surprised. I thought like a couple hundred, but this was over $2700!”

In total the auction items raised $2,797.50 for Palouse Junction High School. 

CRCC representatives pose for a photo with Princial Farrah at Palouse Junction High School.

Shelly Harper, North Franklin Heritage Museum Executive Director along with Connie Koch, Museum Board President, were joined by Stephanie Schneider,  Aaron Jones, Vaaua Gaines, and Lorena Charron from CRCC as they presented the check to Mr. Farrah and Palouse Junction on Monday, May 19 (pictured). Farrah excitedly gave them a full tour of his school. Palouse Junction does more than educate students, they change lives and give back to the community through a variety of community service projects. In fact, the students helped to set up and clean up for the fund-raiser event.