Local professional shares her love for her work and her community
Prescott Woman magazine interviewed Caroline Paiano, a Presentence Investigator with Yavapai County’s Adult Probation Office, to find out what she loves about Prescott and how she’s giving back.
PWM: How long have you lived in Prescott and why did you choose it as your home?
Caroline: I moved to Prescott in 1992 to attend Prescott College. A scholarship covered half my tuition, and I fell in love with the southwest. Though I’ve left Prescott for work, I have always returned to the mountains of Arizona.
PWM: What advice would you give to young women who are new to the city or those considering moving here?
Caroline: Hang in there! Stay true to your passions, and you’ll find your tribe. Prescott offers more diversity than you might think. Though it can be financially challenging to live here, the beauty of this place makes it worthwhile.
PWM: What is your occupation and are there any local events or organizations that have had a significant impact on your professional development?
Caroline: I’ve been an Adult Probation Officer for Yavapai County for 20 years, currently serving as a presentence investigation officer, preparing court reports based on interviews about each probationer’s childhood, mental health, substance abuse, and available services prior to sentencing.
PWM: Do you have any kids, a significant other, fur babies or family who live nearby?
Caroline: I’ve been married to Bill Paiano for 20 years, and we have a busy teen daughter in public school and club soccer. We have two rescued dogs and one stray cat. My mother lives nearby, which is comforting after losing my father this year.
PWM: What do you love most about living and working in this city, and how has it influenced your journey?
Caroline: I love living in Prescott for its balance of friends, family, and nature. I can camp, visit the Sea of Cortez, take my daughter snowboarding, or hike nearby. I’ve also found supportive friends, which has greatly enhanced my happiness as a Probation Officer.
PWM: How has the local culture or environment influenced your personal or professional growth?
Caroline: As a probation officer in Prescott, I collaborate with organizations to support substance abuse treatment and sober living. We uphold court orders while ensuring community safety. Tough decisions can lead to meaningful change. My training on Adverse Childhood Experiences has deepened my understanding of trauma’s impact on well-being, and I take pride in positively influencing my community.
PWM: Are you involved in the community? If so, what initiatives or projects are you currently involved in that aim to uplift our community?
Caroline: I recently participated in the Trek for Teens hike for The Launch Pad, a rim-to-rim Grand Canyon event. I also volunteer for Barb’s Dog Rescue in Rocky Point, Mexico—helping educate the public about their mission.
PWM: If you had the chance to contribute to something in Prescott, what would it be and why?
Caroline: Photography is a hobby of mine that Prescott offers great opportunities for. As I near retirement, I’m considering volunteering and providing paid services for local youth sports and programs like The Launch Pad.