Thank you for your interest in Thresholds in Delaware County. Thresholds is a non-profit organization that teaches a decision making program to interested inmates in Delaware County prisons. We recently celebrated our 41st anniversary of working in the prison systems in our area!!
Our program serves men and women at the George W. Hill Correctional Facility (Delaware County Prison) located in Thornton, men at the State Correctional Institution at Chester (SCI-Chester), and juveniles at the Juvenile Detention Center in Lima. You can choose to teach in one or both prisons. We also have a program at the Juvenile Facility in Lima.
Through the use of a workbook, volunteers teach inmates an essential thought process needed to make decisions and to solve problems. This allows our clients to gain control over their lives and develop a more positive self-image. They are then better equipped to cope with life when they return to their families and the community as tax paying citizens.
Why become a Thresholds volunteer?
Thresholds volunteers learn a logical new way to make decisions. The challenge of teaching in prison can be a very rewarding experience. You can make a difference in someone’s life. Furthermore, the flexibility of our program can fit your busy schedule.
What is required to be a volunteer?
Thresholds volunteers are required to complete the Volunteer Training weekend before they can start working with an inmate. Attendance on both days is required. We begin at 8:45 a.m. each morning and finish by approximately 4:00 p.m. on Saturday. We generally finish by noon on Sunday. A Continental Breakfast and lunch is provided. We also require a $35 registration fee to help defray the cost of training materials and the meals that are provided at the sessions.
Who can volunteer?
Teaching an inmate
We are seeking caring individuals who can commit to meeting with an inmate for 1-2 hours each week for a period of 7 weeks. No previous experience or special education is needed. Each prison does require a background check and security orientation for all new volunteers. Our Volunteer Training is very thorough and we provide excellent teaching materials and support to assist you in your sessions.