Introduction

This training package outlines policies, procedures and guidelines for volunteer program development, training and delivery in a correctional setting. It is intended to provide a common framework for trainers and volunteers, with a focus on literacy. It is comprised of a Training Manual, with appendices, and a Volunteer Handbook, to provide an addendum to training.

These resources are designed to assist staff, trainers, Laubach Tutors, Literacy Volunteers and Computer Mentors, working as a team in a Correctional setting.

Note: To avoid the awkward use of "him/her", he/she", throughout the text, the male person has been used. All references can be applied equally to the female person.

Acknowledgements

This manual was compiled by the John Howard Society of Newfoundland, with financial support from the National Literacy Secretariat of Human Resources Development Canada, and in cooperation with various agencies providing and supporting volunteer literacy services.

Resources used to compile this manual include:

• Existing Volunteer Manuals and materials from the West Coast Correctional Center, Birchy House, West-Bridge House, Howard House and the Carlton Centre.
• Training materials and general information from Laubach Literacy of Canada.
• Modules from Training to Go: Making the Most of Volunteer Resources, provided by the Volunteer Centre, Community Services Council.
• Helping Hands: A Handbook for Volunteers in Prisons and Jails, by Daniel J. Bayse, American Corrections Association, 1993.
• A Primer on Residential Services: From a Criminal Justice Perspective, Canadian Training Institute, 1987.

I would like to thank the agencies that cooperated by providing materials and information to the John Howard Society. Special thanks to Laubach Literacy and the volunteers for their continued support and dedication.