A key advantage of volunteering with OAR is the exceptional orientation and training offered by a staff member of the Volunteer Education Services Department, OAR staff, and other jail-based services professionals. The orientation and training provides an overview of the criminal justice system, detention center programs, and OAR services available to incarcerated individuals.
OAR offers in-service training opportunities throughout the year that focus on different aspects of your volunteer work. OAR Volunteers are encouraged to attend.
Training topics include:
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History of OAR and overview of the agency’s continuum of services |
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Overview of jail services available to incarcerated individuals |
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Mental health issues prevalent among incarcerated individuals |
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Substance abuse issues prevalent among incarcerated individuals |
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How to avoid incarcerated individual manipulation |
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The mentor’s role |
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The tutor’s role |
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The group facilitator’s role |
OAR training is followed by orientation to the detention facility to which you are assigned, including admission and security procedures.
Volunteer Training Step-by-Step
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Send in your volunteer application today! |
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A staff member of the Volunteer Education Services Department reviews your application and contacts you to schedule an interview and orientation at a time convenient to you. |
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You are asked to submit a security clearance application for admittance to the jail. This authorizes the Sheriff Offices to conduct a criminal background investigation. |
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Then you attend the next jail orientation where you receive an overview of volunteer protocol within the detention facility and a tour of the jail. |
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After that you will observe 6 sessions of courses facilitated by other volunteers so that you become familiar with the process and the interaction with the clients. |
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Volunteer Training Workshop Series are offered throughout your volunteer service. These sessions will provide you with new skills, a time to learn and share new ideas, and a time to get your questions answered. |