Winnebago Correctional Center

Winnebago Correctional Center (WCC) is located on the shores of Lake Winnebago.  The center was opened in 1974 to replace a minimum-security bunkhouse at the Winnebago State Farm and housed inmate farm workers.  The Winnebago State Farm closed in the early 1990's to facilitate an expansion at Oshkosh Correctional Institution.  

WCC's current operating capacity is 266 adult male inmates.  The center is part of the Wisconsin Correctional Center System, an "institution" comprised of 14 adult, male correctional centers overseen by a single warden, whose office is centrally located in Madison.  

WCC offers work release programs with local employers through which employment is provided for qualified inmates, with an emphasis made on maintaining that employment placement after the inmate’s release. Funds earned through work release help to pay fees, restitution and other obligations.  Offsite work opportunities are determined based on an evaluation of risk and of each individual’s case.  Placements cannot be guaranteed for all eligible inmates.  Work release and offsite opportunities are a privilege, not a right, and are provided at the discretion of the center superintendent and warden.   Additional programs vary and are available for inmates with identified needs, and based on available volunteers and community partners.   

The WCC project crew assists local government agencies and non-profit organizations on a variety of work projects, incorporating a positive work experience, building new skills, and giving back to the community. Community service opportunities are also offered with staff or agency supervision.