In recognition of National Agriculture Month, the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office Jail-Based Behavioral Services (JBBS) program and the local 4-H chapter have launched their flagship collaboration: the Cultivating Change: Agriculture and Mental Health Initiative. This program connects local 4-H youth with incarcerated individuals at the El Paso County Jail through agricultural education, mental health awareness, and creative expression.
Youth from the Country Style 4-H Club developed presentations highlighting agriculture’s vital role in daily life and various career pathways across Colorado. These materials, which included messages of encouragement, were delivered via structured workshops facilitated through the JBBS program.
Through this initiative, 4-H members strengthened their research, leadership, and public speaking skills. The workshops—facilitated by a licensed therapist and an agricultural business owner—explored the intersection of agriculture, purpose, and well-being. By incorporating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) concepts, the program helped participants build coping strategies and foster self-reflection.
Project topics included:
- Horse Health 101
- Wool, Meat, and More: The Power of Sheep
- Cow Horses: Where Training Meets Tradition
- Producing Profit: The Market Goat Industry
- Genetics in Action: Improving Livestock
More than 250 incarcerated individuals across seven wards completed the program. Participants also collaborated on an agriculture-themed mural project centered on growth, resilience, community, and transformation. This collective effort bolstered accountability, teamwork, and motivation within the facility.
“Programs such as Cultivating Change show how agriculture education can bridge communities while supporting rehabilitation, mental health awareness, workforce development, and positive behavioral change,” stated El Paso County Sheriff Joseph Roybal. “This initiative created an outlet for creativity within the walls of our jail, incentivized positive behavior and teamwork, encouraged critical thinking, and cultivated meaningful human connections between two unlikely communities: 4-H youth and our incarcerated citizens.
“I want to congratulate all the participants for their growth and thank our staff and the 4-H community for ensuring the success of this flagship program. By merging agricultural knowledge with youth mentorship, we are building resilience and creating pathways toward a stronger future.”
Earlier this week, 4-H participants presented their projects and outcomes to Sheriff’s Office Command Staff, further developing leadership and public speaking skills.
Residents of the Pikes Peak region are now invited to participate. Community members are encouraged to visit the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page (epcsheriff) or website (www.epcsheriffsoffice.com) to vote for their favorite mural.
- Voting Opens: Wednesday, March 18, at 11:00 AM
- Voting Closes: Monday, March 23, at 7:30 AM
Community organizations interested in partnering with the Sheriff’s Office for future Cultivating Change programs should contact the Community Affairs and Research Unit at: shrcommunity@elpasoco.com.
To cast your vote click here.
