The Nebraska State Judicial Branch celebrated Nebraska Probation Week, following a proclamation ceremony held in the Supreme Court on July 16, 2024. The week-long celebration, running from July 17 to July 23, was marked by a proclamation from Chief Justice Michael Heavican designating the special week and urging all citizens, especially those in the legal community, to recognize its significance. Justice Jeff Funke delivered and presented the proclamation to probation officials.

State Probation Administrator Deb Minardi hosted the proclamation ceremony, which featured Supreme Court Justice Jeff Funke and State Court Administrator Corey Steel. Guest speakers Jeff Jennings, Chief Probation Officer, and Heather Moran, Problem-Solving Court Coordinator, discussed the Peer Support group within the probation system and trial court services. The goal of peer support is to enhance resilience and well-being among probation officers and court staff. The 10-year-old project, consisting of over 20 employees, provides emotional support to employees, helping coworkers manage job-related stress which, in turn, contributes to safer communities. The presentation underscored the importance of peer support in the court and probation system and its positive impact on individual well-being and probation officers' readiness for community safety.

Probation services, which operate through the Nebraska Judicial Branch, are crucial to the state's juvenile and adult justice systems. Probation officers, staff, and administrators exemplify evidence-based practices while promoting constructive change and community safety through rehabilitation, community collaboration, and partnerships with service providers.

In a direct address to Nebraska state probation officers and staff, Minardi stated:

"I'd like to suggest to you that you give yourself permission to take care of yourself…give yourself permission to take care of each other…and these relationships. But most of all, give yourself permission to celebrate what it is that you do each and every day during Probation Recognition Week.

“Let me remind you that you're valued, important, and cared for. Proud is not a strong enough word to describe how I feel about Nebraska's probation system; and each of you. May you have optimal wellness starting today, throughout Probation Recognition Week, and every day.

“Thank you so much for what you do and have a great week.”

Nebraska Probation Week coincides with the national Pretrial, Probation, and Parole Supervision Week, highlighting the critical role of probation services in maintaining justice and community safety.

The ceremony may be viewed online.

Photo: State Court Administrator Corey Steel, State Probation Administrator Deb Minardi, Chief Probation Officer and peer support team member Jeff Jennings, Problem-Solving Court Coordinator and peer support team member Heather Moran, and Justice Jeff Funke.