Correctional Services

Volunteer Opportunities

Thousands of volunteers work with offenders on a regular basis in Ontario's correctional services system.

Correctional volunteers:

• act as reliable and knowledgeable sources of information for treatment programs and skills training;
• offer emotional support;
• help offenders access services to re-direct their lives upon release; and
• play an important role in the rehabilitation effort.

Volunteers provide many programs and services, such as:

• pastoral counselling;
• Alcoholics Anonymous groups;
• education and life skills training;
• parenting and employment skills;
• anger management groups;
• arts and crafts programs;
• interpreter services;
• discharge planning;
• music and leisure activities; and
• supervising minimum risk probationers.

All volunteers are thoroughly screened and assessed before working with offenders. Volunteer screening involves the completion of the following steps:

1. Submit an application form.
2. Complete an initial interview.
3. Complete a second in-depth interview.
4. Undergo a reference check and CPIC (Canadian Police Information Centre) check.

Former offenders may be considered for volunteer placements if they:

• meet security-screening requirements, and
• possess the qualities and qualifications necessary for the task.

Volunteer co-ordinators in the ministry's institutions and probation & parole offices administer volunteer activities.

They assess the status of programs and monitor the performance of volunteers.

To find out more about becoming a correctional volunteer, contact your local correctional institution or probation & parole office.