Orientation

A new volunteer needs an introduction to the Correctional Center. It is an opportunity to communicate the expected standards of correctional volunteers, as well as introduce staff and volunteers.

Formal Orientation

Volunteers will undergo an orientation and ongoing support to ensure their effectiveness within the Correctional environment. During the formal orientation process, the basic policies of the organization should be outlined, with emphasis on rules and regulations, security, performance, behaviour and confidentiality.

Orientation will be provided by a team consisting of the Volunteer Coordinator, Classification Officer, Correctional Officer and a current Volunteer. The following components should be covered during orientation:

1. Structure of the institution.
2. Philosophy and objectives of the Correctional Center.
3. Role of volunteers.
4. Rules and regulations.
5. Security.
6. Tour of the facility.
7. Introduction of staff.
8. Ethical standards.
9. Relationships with inmates.
10. Review of Volunteer Handbook. (See Part 2.)
11. Answer questions.

The orientation is not limited to the preceding components.

Placement

Volunteers will be assigned to a specific placement, taking into account their stated preference as well as the needs of inmates.

Note: An individual file should be set up for each volunteer.

Training

Volunteers will already possess a variety of skills. To ensure their continued effectiveness, they will be afforded opportunities for further training. This will depend on available resources and the needs of volunteers and inmates.

Note: Laubach Literacy of Canada provides Tutor Training Workshops on a regular basis through the local Literacy Councils.