(BOP) - The idea of volunteering in prison may seem intimidating, but the truth is it's a rewarding, life-changing experience for everyone involved. At BOP, our mission to break the cycle of recidivism is enhanced by the power of volunteers. Volunteers, who share their time and talent to give incarcerated people a fresh start with the skills they need to succeed on the outside.
To obtain a deeper understanding of the volunteer program and its benefits, Reentry Affairs Coordinators (RACs) Aracelli, Mandy, and Beatriz, who have 16 years of combined experience, tell us what volunteering on the inside is really like and how it makes a difference in the lives of incarcerated people. RACs are responsible for managing volunteers and overseeing the full lifecycle of the volunteer experience, from onboarding to changing lives. Here's what they had to say:
What kinds of volunteer programs do you offer at your institution?
Aracelli: We have a robust program with about 120 volunteers. We use volunteers in traditional programs like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), and religious programs, but our leadership believes in expanding our programming and getting creative to ensure inmates get the support and experience they need.
For example, we offer a distance running program in which distance runners educate inmates about the importance of physical activity and teach them how to build endurance. We also have the Challenge Program, which provides a therapeutic living environment to help inmates heal from their past trauma and actions. For those who experience mental health issues, we provide different avenues to help them work through various crises.
Mandy: Mainly pet therapy. Volunteers bring in their dogs (who are certified therapy dogs) to sit and play with the inmates.
Beatriz: We have lots of Religious Service programs and different faith groups, AA and NA courses, and educational classes. Volunteers from Veterans Affairs (VA) also come in and work with veterans to help teach them about what's going on outside the institution. We currently have 65 volunteers, who are all super passionate. One volunteer has been providing his expertise since the late 1980s.
How do these programs affect inmates?
Mandy: We've seen programs-like the pet therapy sessions-that enable huge positive emotional responses for our incarcerated population. For example, inmates call loved ones after these very emotional sessions and talk about how meaningful it was to spend time with a dog for the first time in 25 years. We also had one inmate who never spoke or emoted, but as soon as he came into the room, he immediately smiled and went over and talked to the dog.
How do you think these programs impact an inmate's ability to reenter society?
Aracelli: Volunteers bring the outside in; they represent "the norm."" Not only do they teach everyday skills, they share personal stories to connect with inmates. Their presence helps set expectations and gives inmates a vision of what transitioning into the community will look like.
In your experience, how do volunteers generally feel about working with inmates inside a prison?
Mandy: I don't think I've met a single volunteer who wasn't nervous or afraid their first time volunteering, but they were pleasantly surprised and kept coming back. Also, after volunteers see how impactful these programs are, they begin to understand the importance of their time and appreciate how valued they are by the inmates and the BOP.
Are there any meaningful experiences that stand out to you?
Beatriz: Yes, the Alternative to Violence Program. It's an interactive program and can be very intense. Our staff truly sees changes in the minds and attitudes of inmates who complete the program. Staff, inmates, and volunteers all interact and share their stories, which helps inmates connect with each other. When the volunteer is truly passionate about something, it shows, which is invaluable to all!
Is there anything else you would like to say about the volunteer program?
Aracelli: I'd like to let potential volunteers know that there is a lot of room for creative solutions, and we work with nonprofits and community service organizations. The kind of programs we offer satisfy our institutional requirements but also satisfy the requirements of many organizations. Some organizations teach inmates marketable skills, which helps set them up for careers post-release.
We are working to change lives and better society, one person at a time. Apply to volunteer today to leave a legacy of good in your community.