Volunteer Today!
Volunteers are needed because the prison system is a mission field where the volunteer can do a work for God, be a blessing to others, and receive a blessing. It is an opportunity for the volunteer to share Christ. There is a lot of misinformation about prison ministries and the volunteer can help educate those in the community. Jesus said we should visit those in prison. Most families are affected by someone in prison; either they each have a family member who has been or is in prison or they know someone that does. Over 2.5 million people are incarcerated in the United States. In Texas state prisons there are over 150,000 people in prison. This does not include federal prisons or the county/city jails. People are affected. Volunteers will help Freedom Outreach Ministries to accomplish its goal of ministering to people before, during, and after incarceration to help reduce the numbers that return to prison by introducing them to a life-changing experience, thus helping to improve neighborhoods and communities.
Volunteer requirements for infrequent volunteers only need a picture ID (driver’s license). Ex-offenders must be out of prison for at least two years before entering as a volunteer. Each unit has its own rules on volunteer requirements.
Volunteer requirements for frequent volunteers must have a picture ID (driver’s license) and complete an application to be a certified volunteer. Each unit has its own rules on certified volunteer requirements. The Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) provides an online Volunteer Application at tdcj.state.tx.us. Upon approval by the TDCJ, you will receive an approval letter with instructions on taking an orientation training session, a three-hour class to learn the rules of what you can do and what you cannot do.