Tacoma Rescue Mission's Jail Ministry
The Chaplaincy at Pierce County Corrections is sponsored by the Tacoma Rescue Mission. Listed below is our current chaplain's staff.
Rich Odegard
Rich began as a volunteer in 1994. With the addition of the Annex, he became an associate Chaplain serving that facility.
In March 1999, the Tacoma Rescue Mission contracted with the county and retained Rich as the program Director.
Dr. Archie Luck
Dr. Luck, a volunteer since 1983, hired in 1999 to fill the Annex position now anchors the New Jail duties.
Pam Norfleet
Pam is our newest member coming to assist us with (primarily) services to the women. Her background in personal
ministry including other correction facilities will be an added blessing.
Bill Balmer
Bill actually began as a volunteer in 1955. He has served as Sr. Chaplain and continues to volunteer as an associate. He
also oversees the Emmaus Bible Correspondence Course.
Lois Odegard
Lois is the Chaplaincy Administrative Assistant.
What We Do...
The Correction Bureau Chaplaincy provides spiritual and personal growth enhancement opportunities to inmates of all
persuasions. We act as a bridge between inmates and the community including family, religious leaders and the professional
field. We also desire to provide inmates the spiritual and motivational foundation to re-enter the community
with positive behavior.
Our provided services include the following:
- Correspondence study program
- Obtaining and distributing inspirational books and literature
- Processing attendance lists for various inmate programs
- Spiritual studies and visitation
- Personal and emergency crisis counseling
- Verifying and notifying inmates of illness and death of family members
- Processing and keeping records of religious diets
- Assisting the Humane Society regarding the animals of inmates
- Managing and conducting the "Responsible Living Units"
- Managing and conducting the "Chaplain's Class: Confronting Addictions"
- Networking with individuals, organizations and/or agencies providing aftercare programs