NCJ Number
108863
Date Published
1987
Length
26 pages
Annotation
The document reports the findings of a January/February 1987 survey of California's probation departments regarding volunteers' work with juveniles, with attention to types of services performed, benefits to probation, and problems.
Abstract
The survey form mailed to all 58 probation departments was completed by 49 departments, or an 84-percent response rate. The results revealed that 75 to 80 percent of these departments used volunteers in juvenile work. Statewide, nearly 4,500 volunteers provide services in a typical month. Most offer counseling and other help in juvenile halls and county camps. Over three-fourths of the agencies using volunteers rated the volunteers' services as very useful, and some counties reported a large cost savings. At least 13 counties had also formed specialized auxiliaries dedicated to individual help, group activities, and occasional fundraising. About 9 or 10 larger departments relied on volunteer coordinators who essentially worked full time in that role. About half reported problems in using volunteers: lack of time to work with volunteers, high turnover in some areas, and organizing for effective volunteer use. The survey questionnaire is included. (Author summary modified)