Internships and Volunteer Positions

Inside and Outside Unit Volunteer
Family Resource Center - SCI Graterford

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Visiting Room Volunteer position is a weekend position in the Family Resource Center (FRC) in the Inside and Outside Units at SCI-Graterford.

The goals of this program are::

1. To assist in facilitating positive visits between inmates and their families.
2. To model appropriate interaction and parenting skills with visiting children.
3. To increase self-esteem of participating inmates as they develop and practice new skills.

Responsabilities include:

1. Engaging with children in a way that builds their self-esteem and models safe and healthy relationships;
2. Interacting with children's families and incarcerated men;
3. Facilitating age-appropriate activities and programs, such as arts and craft, games and the Book Club, as determined by the Program Coordinator;
4. Cleaning up after activities and organizing supplies, toys and books in the closet;
5. Decorating the FRC in a child-friendly and appropriate manner, as determined by the Program Coordinator;
6. Assisting with special events, such as the Family Fun Day and Holiday Party;
7. Documenting activities, clients served, hours worked and other reporting determined by the FRC Program Coordinator;
8. Attending in-service and training programs;
9. Representing the FRC in a professional and positive manner in all interactions with prison staff, prisoners, children and their families.

Requirements include:

1. Enjoyment of children and interest in their age-related needs and interests
2. Ability to relate to different types of people
3. Friendly and enthusiastic demeanor
4. Strong communication and conflict resolution skills
5. Flexibility, patience and ability to think on one's feet
6. Background in early childhood education, criminal justice or another related field a plus
7. Spanish speaking a plus
8. Commitment to complete a 5-6 hour work shift on any scheduled day
9. Reliable transportation to and from SCI-Graterford (app. 40 miles from Philadelphia)
10. Bi-annual criminal record check to secure prison clearance
11. Annual Child Abuse History clearance
12. Submission of negative TB test results
13. Attend a prison volunteer orientation

Each volunteer can expect to work 1 - 2 weekend days a month, based on availability. Hours of operation are 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

Submit cover letter and resume to:
    Rhonda Davis, Family Resource Center Program Coordinator
    The Pennsylvania Prison Society
    245 N. Broad Street, Suite 300
    Philadelphia, PA 19107
    FAX: 215-564-7926

Submission of cover letter and resume via email is preferred.