NCJ Number
92869
Date Published
1981
Length
162 pages
Annotation
In describing how volunteers can be constructively used in a jail, this manual discusses the steps for establishing a successful volunteer program, including planning the program, laying the program's foundation, launching and operating the program, and evaluating the program.
Abstract
In discussing the need for citizen volunteers in jails, the manual notes that volunteers are particularly needed because jails are overcrowded, understaffed, and underbudgeted; volunteers can provide much-needed services at minimal cost. The four steps in developing a plan for a volunteer program are (1) analyzing the community, jail, and prisoner population; (2) identifying the jail management problem that volunteers can help solve; (3) brainstorming for solutions; and (4) shaping the solutions into a workable plan. Aspects of laying the program's foundation include deciding on the management approach, drafting the manual, setting the budget, and obtaining the funds. Launching the program involves establishing the board, employing the staff, organizing the office, printing program materials, and setting the first year's measurement, as well as establishing the time frame for having the program fully operational. Operating the program includes recruiting, screening, training, and managing the volunteers; enrolling prisoners in the program; financial management; and public relations. Program evaluation consists of both performance and process evaluation. The appendixes include various forms, job descriptions, a training outline, descriptions of a number of specific programs, and a basic feedback system.