CCSO receives wellness grant for recovery, fitness equipment

WENATCHEE — The Chelan County Sheriff's Office has received a $16,500 Officer Wellness Grant from the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission (CJTC) to expand wellness and recovery resources for deputies.

The funding will create dedicated wellness rooms at the agency's Valley, West and North offices, each equipped with saunas, cold plunge systems and massage chairs intended to reduce stress and promote physical recovery. The grant will also pay for three Rogue Echo Bike and Rower packages to expand fitness opportunities across the department, along with a system to track equipment use and measure the program's long-term impact.

According to the sheriff's office, employees were asked earlier this year what additional resources would best support their overall well-being, and recovery-focused tools emerged as the top request. The CJTC approved the agency's full funding request.

The latest grant continues a multi-year investment in employee wellness led by Behavioral Health Unit Manager Ana Talley, Sheriff's Office administration and employee feedback. Since 2023, the agency has secured more than $300,000 in outside wellness grant funding.

Previous grants have funded peer support training, critical incident stress management certification, a mental health and resilience retreat, therapy dog supplies, light therapy equipment, family wellness events and a fitness room remodel. Additional funding has also supported neurofeedback virtual reality systems, continuing education, wellness literature and health screenings for deputies.

Sheriff's officials said the grant reflects the agency's belief that supporting deputies extends beyond wages, equipment and facilities to include resources that promote physical health, mental resilience and long-term career sustainability.

Andrew Simpson: 509-433-7626 or andrew@ward.media