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Perceptions of the Volunteer Role

NCJ Number
108631
Journal
Journal of Offender Counseling Services and Rehabilitation Volume: 12 Issue: 1 Dated: (Fall/Winter 1987) Pages: 141-146
Author(s)
W L Lucas
Date Published
1987
Length
6 pages
Annotation
The perceptions of the volunteer role in probation and parole services were examined in questionnaire responses to a 1984 survey of 55 (81-percent return rate) officers using volunteers in one region of the Missouri Division of Probation and Parole.
Abstract
Data indicate that officers perceived the volunteer role as involving at least seven distinct elements. These include designing/conducting research projects and program evaluations, treatment program involvement (development, administration, and operation), counseling, and supervision and management (e.g., report writing, working with clients and working in the community). Additional activities identified by officers included volunteer program operations (e.g. training and recruiting new volunteers), clerical activities, and investigation. Results suggest that agencies wishing to develop volunteer programs may find it beneficial to organize their programs around the seven functions found to be supported by agency staff. 7 references.