Mechelle Siles, the Supervising Case Manager at the Pomona Day Reporting Center (DRC), has been an integral part of GEO for nearly a decade. The Pomona DRC operates under a contract with the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR), providing parolees with critical resources and support to reduce recidivism rates and thereby promote a seamless transition into their respective communities.
Mechelle Siles has proven to be an invaluable asset to the Pomona DRC, leveraging her extensive knowledge and experience gained over 26 years in the social services field. Her contributions have significantly influenced various initiatives while creating a positive work environment. Under her leadership, the DRC has successfully implemented gender-responsive programs, including the establishment of women's groups and gender-specific Moral Reconation Therapy (MRT) sessions.
Drawing upon more than 23 years of management experience, Mechelle has developed robust quality assurance tools to ensure case managers are held accountable for their workload and professional development. Her commitment extends beyond internal operations to building robust community connections. She played a critical role in establishing the Pomona Valley Reentry Coalition and enabling the seamless reintegration of participants. Furthermore, Mechelle fostered strategic partnerships with organizations like Tri-City Mental Health and The Reintegration Academy, providing participants with comprehensive mental health services and life skills training.
Mechelle actively fosters collaboration among staff members, particularly case managers, within the DRC. She introduced innovative approaches, such as monthly forums and one-on-one discussions, to identify areas for improvement and promote positive outcomes. Mechelle's coaching extends to equipping assistant case managers with practical strategies for handling challenging interactions and conflict resolution.
Mechelle's positive attitude and teamwork skills have significantly contributed to fostering a highly positive morale within the office. She established the "Cheers for Peers" recognition program, encouraging staff members to appreciate and support one another. Mechelle consistently coaches and supports employees, helping them enhance their performance and time management skills. She actively seeks feedback from staff to improve program operations and has undergone training to handle specific program manager tasks.
Mechelle's exceptional communication skills are evident in her interactions with staff, parole officers, and participants. She excels at conveying clear expectations and fostering constructive conversations.
Mechelle's multifaceted contributions have been instrumental in driving the success of the Pomona DRC. Her leadership, innovation, and commitment to excellence have not only enhanced internal operations but also fostered strong community partnerships. Mechelle's positive influence extends to staff development, morale, and effective communication, creating a collaborative and supportive environment that benefits employees and participants. Her dedication and professionalism make her a truly invaluable asset to the organization.
