AFSCME Local 685 member helps young men and women as a probation officer

Christopher Wade, a member of AFSCME Local 685 and 5-year veteran of the Los Angeles County Probation Department, helps the young men and women he supervises in Los Padrino Juvenile Hall.

As a group supervisor night Wade acts as a counselor, coach, and guide for the at-risk youth he supervises. He ensures they are safe and have the essentials that they need, such as bedding, clothing, and hygiene products. “A lot of these young men have not had that experience of having someone teach them how to brush their teeth, wash their face, or even just simply washing their hands,” says Wade. He listens to their concerns about their court case and answers any questions they may have. Additionally, he provides an outlet for the young men who have pent up energy by doing exercises with them. 

Wade is passionate about his work. Being the oldest of seven kids, he has learned how to have compassion and understanding for the youth in his care who have not been afforded certain opportunities. “My work is important to me because I feel like I’ve been chosen to do this,” said Wade. “I have a passion for this. I care about what I do.”
 

The Los Angeles County Probation Department is seeking passionate individuals, like Christopher Wade, to join the team as a deputy probation officer. AFSCME District Council 36 and AFSCME Local 685 held a job fair on August 16 to assist the Probation Department in filling these positions. The work that probation officers do is vital in ensuring the safety and care of individuals at youth camps and juvenile halls. If you are interested in applying to be a deputy probation officer, please visit Los Angeles County Jobs.