TDCJ Volunteer Services Newsletter May 2014

Texas Department of Criminal Justice Volunteer Services

Volunteer Services Newsletter May 2014


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The Online Volunteer Application is DOWN FOR MAINTENANCE - The Interim Process Is Described Below

If you know of someone who is interested in becoming an approved volunteer within the TDCJ, they are encouraged to attend a 4-hour volunteer training session at one of the facilities listed on the June - August Volunteer Training Schedule (see link below).  During the interim process YOU DO NOT NEED A LETTER TO ATTEND A TRAINING.  YOU ARE REQUIRED TO CONTACT THE FACILITY TO ENSURE YOU ARE ON THE TRAINING ROSTER BEFORE ATTENDING THE TRAINING SESSION.

Completion of training is not a guarantee of approval; all applications to include a criminal background check are reviewed for eligibility.  If you have a specific question regarding your eligibility you are encouraged to contact Volunteer Services at 936-437-3026.  Applications will be available at the training; however you may also choose to bring a completed Volunteer Application with you to the training.

If you are unable to attend a training session or if you wish to be approved before attending, you may either 1) download the Application, complete it electronically (on-screen), print, then send by fax or 2) download the Application, print, complete it by hand, then send by postal mail upon approval you will be sent a letter to attend a training session.


BRIDGES TO LIFE Volunteers Needed

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Bridges to Life (BTL) needs your help to facilitate a 14 week program in prison units throughout the State of Texas.  The program is currently offered in 34 facilities.

The mission of BTL is to connect communities to prisons in an effort to reduce the recidivism rate (particularly that resulting from violent crimes), reduce the number of crime victims, and enhance public safety.  The spiritual mission of BTL is to minister to victims and offenders in an effort to show them the transforming power of God’s love and forgiveness.

Learn more:  www.bridgestolife.org    

Contact person:  Connie@bridgestolife.org


Continued Need for Volunteers for Offenders with Mental Illnesses and Developmental Disabilities

Volunteers are needed in the Richmond and Gatesville TDCJ Correctional Facilities specifically Jester IV and Crain Unit Valley Satellite to help facilitate programs for offenders, such as arts & crafts, garden therapy, music therapy, and others.  For more information contact Volunteer Services.  


Prison Fellowship Offers Free Resources

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Family ministry was instrumental in reuniting a mother with her children.  Read more...

Prison Fellowship has designed a Training Resource Center where any volunteer from any organization, churches, and PF staff can find numerous resources for carrying out the ministries God has placed in their hands. The resources are divided into four main areas of ministry:

This is a live site that will continue to grow. The goal of the site is to equip all volunteers and churches to serve prisoners, ex-prisoners, and their families – so hearts can be healed and lives restored.