It’s a misconception that everyone in prison is a violent inmate who has committed unspeakable acts. Men and women in prison can significantly benefit from the care of someone who isn’t involved with the Department of Corrections. Here are 10 ways you can volunteer with inmates.
- Tutor
Tutoring inmates can substantially change their lives. Many inmates decide to further their education in prison, either by getting a GED or working toward an Associate’s degree. Just like students in high school or college, they may need a little help learning some concepts, and you can be the one to teach them. - Teach a Class
If possible, consider teaching a class. The class can be on literally anything you want, such as math, English, geography, or even stress management techniques. If you know about it, you can teach it, and prisoners will be thankful for the opportunity. - Offer Spiritual Guidance
Religion is how many inmates make it through prison, and they often find themselves in need of spiritual guidance. Many programs allow people to help prisoners through difficult times with the support of a pastor, reverend, or just a simple good samaritan. - Offer Career Assistance
When prisoners are released from prison, they may have a hard time finding jobs because they don’t understand the job market. Thankfully, there are volunteer positions that allow you to offer career assistance to those who need a little extra help finding a job after prison. - Sponsor with Alcoholics/Narcotics Anonymous
Drugs and alcohol are major issues for many prisoners. Correctional facilities have programs such Alcoholics and Narcotics Anonymous where you can volunteer as a sponsor. You could help an inmate through the struggle of becoming and staying substance-free. - Lead Leisure-Time Activities
Prison isn’t all about learning and work, and there are many leisure-time activities you can teach prisoners, such as arts and crafts. If you know how to work with clay or how to paint—or some other enjoyable activity that could be done in a prison—you can lead a class to help inmates unwind. - Participate in Mock Job Fairs
Job fairs are essential when inmates get out of prison. It can be a make-or-break moment for getting a job or maybe starting a career. Some correctional facilities allow you to create mock job fairs so inmates can learn some tips and tricks and how to conduct themselves. - Supply Vocational Training
If you have a vocational skill you want to teach prisoners, you’re in luck! Many prison systems allow you to teach inmates vocational skills, whether it's food preparation, bookkeeping, or computer support. These skills are all in high demand and can be taught without many tools. - Mentor
For both juvenile and adult inmates, having a mentor can change their lives. Just being able to converse with someone and ask life questions changes the way a prisoner thinks, especially if he or she is able to contact you on a regular basis. Volunteer as a mentor and change someone’s life! - Just Listen
You don’t have to have any particular skills to help or volunteer at a correctional facility. Many inmates just need someone to listen to them. You don’t need to be a certified counselor just to listen to what someone has to say.
