IGNITE

Inmate Growth Naturally & Intentionally Through Education

“IGNITE is just the beginning. We want education to continue beyond our walls. The same online program that starts here in the jail can be accessed when participants return to the community. It’s not just about serving time; it’s about building a future. We all want these individuals to return to their communities as productive members of society.” -Sheriff Mark Warden

FROM INCARCERATION
TO EDUCATION

Endorsed by the National Sheriff’s Association

Logo of the National Sheriffs' Association featuring a gold star with a blue shield in the center and the acronym I.G.N.I.T.E.

About IGNITE

IGNITE’s mission is to reverse the cycle of generational incarceration through education.

Educating inmates offers numerous benefits that help reduce recidivism and enhance community safety. By providing inmates with valuable job training, they gain skills that can be used after their release to secure meaningful employment and reduce the likelihood of reoffending. Educational programs have also been shown to decrease generational incarceration by offering inmates a way to escape the cycle that previous generations perpetuated.

Moreover, offering positive reinforcement through educational programs while incarcerated instills hope in inmates, which has been found to diminish violent behavior and altercations among them.

….it is clear that this approach is one of the most effective ways to combat crime and restore a sense of purpose within the inmate population.

Group of inmates in orange jumpsuits sitting in a cell, listening to a man in a white shirt and brown shorts who is leading a discussion or therapy session.
A correctional officer standing and leaning over a table, pointing at a laptop screen, while two incarcerated men in orange uniforms sit at the table and look at the screen, in a room with a plain white wall.
Group of inmates in orange prison uniforms sitting in a room facing a man in a white shirt and tan shorts, who appears to be a psychologist or counselor.
Two inmates in orange jumpsuits meet with a deputy in an office, smiling and engaging in a conversation.
Sheriff officers in orange prison uniforms working on laptops in a room, with one officer standing and pointing at a screen as other officers look on.
A group of four women in orange prison uniforms sitting in a hallway, talking to two women in civilian clothing, possibly during a court hearing or legal proceeding.
Four men in orange prison uniforms working on laptops in a room.

IGNITE participants have given the WCSO permission to use their photos.

I.G.N.I.T.E. Program Press Releases

May 30th, 2025 I.G.N.I.T.E. Launch Press Release

July 18, 2025 I.G.N.I.T.E. Community Donations Press Release