Prisons

New Volunteer Requirements

*ALL VOLUNTEERS WILL NEED TO SUBMIT AN UPDATED VOLUNTEER APPLICATION IN ANTICIPATION OF RETURNING.*

 

Thank you for your interest in becoming a volunteer with the Idaho Department of Correction!!

Volunteer Categories

Level 1 Volunteer: Constant staff or Level 2 volunteer escort and observation. All new volunteers begin as Level 1.

Level 2 Volunteer: Does not require constant staff escort; must demonstrate an ability to work successfully in the prison environment, have at least 24 hours of volunteer service in the facility, and receive approval from the VRC and Deputy Warden of the facility.

Limited Service Volunteer: Enter the facility less than four (4) times in one year for a special event; i.e. one-time guest speaker. Limited-Service volunteers are not required to complete the training requirements, but do need to complete an application.

Mentor: Review the requirements to become a mentor.

First Steps

  1. Review the Volunteer Agreement and the Volunteer Services in a Correctional Facility policy. Make sure you meet the eligibility requirements outlined in policy.
  2. Review the list of Idaho prison facilities and community reentry centers to determine which one you'd like to volunteer at. You will only be allowed to select one facility initially. If you'd like to expand your volunteer service to additional facilities, notify the Facility VRC after the application has been approved.
  3. Complete and submit the New Volunteer Application online. You will receive an email confirmation that your application has been received. To inquire about the status of your application, contact the Facility VRC.
  4. A background security check will be completed and your application will be reviewed. If the application is approved, plan to attend the New Volunteer Training.

    *If you're not sure if you want to volunteer in a prison environment, you can observe a volunteer service and receive a brief tour of the facility by contacting the Facility VRC. Make sure you schedule this through the VRC!
  5. Once you complete the New Volunteer training, you will need to attend a Facility Orientation that is specific to the facility where you will be volunteering. All correctional facilities operate differently; the facility orientation is required so you can become familiar with the facility's emergency procedures and guidelines before you begin your volunteer service. Contact the Facility VRC to schedule the Facility Orientation.
  6. Once your application has been approved and you've completed the New Volunteer Training and Facility Orientation, contact the Facility VRC to arrange your volunteer service schedule.