What to Expect at Smith Transitional Center’s Family Day (Building A check‑in, capacity, and tips)
Family Day at Smith Transitional Center is simple once you know two things: you must be registered, and check-in happens at Building A. Here's what to bring, how capacity works, and a few tips to make the day go smoothly.
To attend Family Day, you need to register in advance and be on the offender's approved visitation list. Spots fill fast - the most recent event was capped at 213 registrants, and registration closed once that number was hit.
On the day of the event, you’ll check in at Building A. Plan to have your information ready when you arrive so staff can move people through efficiently.
- ✓ A valid photo ID (have it out and ready at Building A check-in)
- ✓ The offender’s GDC number (you’ll be asked for it at check-in)
- ✓ If you’re completing the visitation form and choosing certain ID options, be aware those selections require you to be 18 years or older
Capacity is a hard limit. The last Family Day capped registration at 213 people, and the portal closed once that number was reached. If you're planning to attend a future event, register the moment the window opens.
Once inside, GDC asks visitors to keep conversations with departmental representatives to about 10 minutes so more families can be helped. Want to speak with the Commissioner? It's first-come, first-served - and limited to 18 people total, with each meeting capped at 10 minutes.
Need physical assistance during Family Day? Let a GDC representative know at check-in so they can help you navigate the process. Also note: if you're using the visitation form and selecting certain ID options, you must be 18 or older.
Dress comfortably. Wear shoes you can walk in - you may be on your feet for a while.
- Write down your top questions - keep them short and prioritize what you most need answered.
- Aim for about 10 minutes per representative - GDC asks families to limit time with a departmental representative to around 10 minutes so more people can be seen.
- Stick to the essentials - if you run out of time, note what you still need to ask so you can follow up through the right channel later.
Day of Flow and Tips
- ✓ Go to Building A for check-in
- ✓ Have your photo ID ready
- ✓ Have the offender’s GDC number ready
- ✓ If you require physical assistance, tell a GDC representative during check-in
- ✓ Wear comfortable clothing and shoes (expect walking/standing)
- ✓ Keep your time with each departmental representative to about 10 minutes
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