Volunteering in the Correctional Service of Canada
Reference Handbook
Welcome Messages
Your file Votre référence
Our file Notre référence
1777-8
Dear Volunteer:
I am very pleased to welcome you to the Correctional Service Canada (CSC) and to thank you for your decision to support the reintegration efforts of one or more individuals throughout the correctional process. It is a privilege for CSC to be able to count on your energy and commitment to help us meet our mandate, that is, to contribute to the protection of public safety.
The work of volunteers within the Correctional Service of Canada is extremely important. Given the complexity of CSC’s work environment, it is essential that we work together to ensure that your support is part of a broader professional context of correctional interventions. This handbook has been designed to both recognize and support you in your efforts and involvement. Your contribution is very important in human terms because it saves, even re-creates, hope and determination that is necessary for life changing decisions by offenders.
On behalf of all the CSC staff and all the individuals that will directly benefit from your services, I thank you for agreeing to assist in the reintegration efforts of offenders and thus, contribute to building strong and safe communities in Canada. Be assured that the value of the role you play in the criminal justice system is gratefully acknowledged and appreciated.
Yours sincerely,
Don Head
Commissioner
Your file Votre référence
Our file Notre référence
1777-8
Dear Volunteers:
The National Volunteer Association (NVA) extends a sincere thanks to all of you who actively participate in the health, safety, and vibrancy of your community by volunteering with the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC).
The NVA is an organization that serves as a national voice for volunteers working within the CSC – your involvement directly contributes to solidifying this voice. After all, your participation is linked to the safe and successful reintegration of offenders. Your presence serves to bridge the gap between offenders and their communities – selflessly offering your services and support nation-wide.
Please feel confident that your participation makes a significant difference in the lives of staff, offenders, and the community. Whether your involvement centers around activities in the institution or community, your presence within the CSC will always bring with it a number of inherent and invaluable messages: that you are a supportive citizen, that you care about the plight of others, that offenders are worthwhile human beings, and that you will enhance the likelihood of successful reintegration. It is both comforting and energizing to know that you believe so strongly in the mission of the CSC and the potential of offenders that you give freely of your time and services for the benefit of our communities – good on you.
Over the years, volunteers have made countless ongoing contributions to safe communities throughout Canada – we look forward to you continuing this legacy in your own area of interest, expertise and creativity.
Wishing you luck and all the best in your endeavours.
Jim Murphy
Director, Community Initiatives
Co-Chair, NVA
Bill Huzar
Volunteer, CSC
Co-Chair, NVA
Introduction
The following information package is designed to give you a greater understanding of the role and responsibilities of the federal correctional system so that you may be comfortable participating in our correctional endeavours in a safe and productive manner. It is our desire that you gain useful knowledge of the mandate, goals and mission of Correctional Service Canada (CSC) and the mechanisms that drive our performance.
In this reference handbook you will find an overview of the federal legislation that directs the operation of the Service and you will gain an appreciation of how CSC is linked to law enforcement, the courts and the parole system. These are the legal authorities which make up the criminal justice system. Corrections is a complex, fascinating and rewarding field. As per Section 3 of the Corrections and Conditional Release Act (CCRA), the legislative framework that governs the functions and operations of CSC, the purpose of the federal correctional system is to contribute to the maintenance of a just, peaceful and safe society by:
- carrying out sentences imposed by courts through the safe and humane custody and supervision of offenders; and
- assisting the rehabilitation of offenders and their reintegration into the community as law-abiding citizens through the provision of programs in penitentiaries and in the community.
Volunteers have been serving the criminal justice system in Canada for many years and their services have become an integral part of offenders’ lives. We gratefully welcome all those who give of their time to assist us in enhancing the correctional process and hope you enjoy this overview.
Thank you for helping to make our community and country a safe place to live.