Volunteering with the Correctional Service of Canada

by Heidi Riley

Correctional Service of Canada is a federal government agency that works with offenders in the federal system who are serving two years or more.

Thousands of Canadians volunteer their time, energy, and passion to help offenders become law-abiding citizens. Their work provides a bridge to help offenders safely transition from incarceration to rehabilitation.

If you have the time, energy and passion to volunteer, there are many opportunities and programs where you can make a difference in the lives of offenders. Some of these programs include:

• Chaplaincy
• Recreation activities
• Classroom and workshop instruction
• Cultural activities

There is also an opportunity to support families of offenders or help released offenders re-adjust to life. Catherine St. Onge, Community Volunteer Coordinator for the Atlantic Region, is responsible for recruiting and supervising volunteers working with offenders who have been released on parole to the community.

“On PEI, there are currently no volunteers for this program, because it just started a year ago,” says Catherine. “Volunteers work alongside Parole Officers, and work one-on-one with offenders helping with such practical tasks as putting a resumé together, helping them study for their GED exams, providing companionship, helping them get an ID, look for an apartment, or open a bank account.”

Becoming a volunteer

Before being accepted, volunteers must apply for and be granted security clearance, including a criminal background check, fingerprinting, and a reference check. They must also complete training.

“It can be a long process to become a volunteer, but it is something you could add to your resumé or to see if the field of Corrections and working with offenders is a good career choice for you,” says Catherine. “Also, once you obtain security clearance, it would be helpful if you wish to apply for another job which requires security clearance.”