Volunteer Policy

This policy establishes operational guidelines for how Jail Chaplains programs, volunteers, and activities align with and implement our Statement of Faith while serving effectively in correctional facilities.

This policy establishes clear boundaries and guidelines for Jail Chaplains Ministry volunteers serving in correctional facilities to ensure the safety and security of the facilities, inmates, staff, and volunteers while providing Christian programs.

This policy establishes guidelines for managing and resolving conflicts that may arise during volunteer service in secure areas of correctional facilities. Proper conflict resolution ensures the safety of all parties, maintains the integrity of the ministry, and supports the overall mission of providing spiritual care to incarcerated individuals.

The Cass County Jail Volunteer Handbook provides the policy for serving in the jail.  Their programs mission statement is:

To provide programs that will offer inmates an opportunity to help prepare themselves for eventual reintegration into their communities. We will strive toward the goal that inmates will leave this facility with the resources, skills and knowledge to become a more productive citizen in their community.  

The purpose of this operations policy is to: define the structure, requirements, and expectations for our volunteer ministry teams; ensure consistency in ministry operations across all settings; and provide accountability and support mechanisms for volunteers and staff.

This policy ensures compliance with the Cass County Jail Volunteer Handbook and establishes clear boundaries regarding volunteers' involvement in inmates' legal matters, including sentencing discussions, court testimony, and letters of support. These boundaries protect the ministry's neutrality, maintain appropriate volunteer-inmate relationships, and ensure the ministry's focus remains on spiritual care.

By implementing this group-first approach, Jail Chaplains provides effective ministry that honors our mission, protects all involved, respects facility requirements, and ultimately spreads the gospel message more widely within correctional facilities.