Who we are looking for
PVS visitors are patient, dependable, and willing to listen without judgment. They do not preach or impose a religion or philosophy. They meet people as they are and keep the focus on the person they visit.
Volunteers come from many ages, professions, and backgrounds. Speaking another language is helpful, but it is not required.
What the commitment looks like
Most volunteers spend about one day a month on PVS, including the visit, brief correspondence, and a short online report. Volunteers are asked to commit for at least two years.
PVS provides orientation, training, and ongoing support throughout your service.
What it means to be a visitor
Becoming a PVS visitor takes about one day a month, once preliminary correspondence and follow-up reporting are factored in. Visitors commit to at least two years of service. Orientation and training are provided by the PVS office, and attendance at a training conference is required. After each visit, visitors submit a brief report online.
We look for people who are mature, good listeners, and willing to visit anyone without prejudice. Foreign language ability is a plus.
1 day per month
2-year commitment
Training provided
How to apply
A simple process to join our network of dedicated volunteers.
Step 1:
Complete the visitor application
Step 2:
Talk with PVS staff
Step 3:
Complete PVS orientation and training
Step 4:
Complete the facility approval process, including fingerprinting and background check
Step 5:
Begin visits after you are approved and matched
Not sure if there is a federal or military facility near you? Use the Bureau of Prisons facility locator, https://www.bop.gov/locations/map.jsp, or contact us directly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Visitors are matched with prisoners on a first-come, first-served basis. When a visitor has an opening, they are paired with the next prisoner on the waiting list. Visitors and prisoners do not choose their match.
The prisoner sets the agenda. It is their time to talk about what matters to them, and the visitor’s time to listen with compassion, respect, and without judgment. Conversations may cover sports, hobbies, family, life experiences, hopes for the future, or anything else on their mind that day.
By visiting the same person each month, volunteers can build trust and a real friendship over time. The most important thing is showing up and reminding someone that they are seen, heard, and valued.
Yes. Volunteers complete the annual training required by the prison, along with ongoing PVS training. They receive a detailed manual, online resources, and access to workshops offered in person and on Zoom.
When possible, new volunteers are paired with experienced local volunteers for guidance. Our goal is for every volunteer to feel prepared and supported before the first visit.
Yes. All volunteers complete a background check and fingerprinting as part of the prison approval process. We encourage anyone who is interested to apply, including people with a criminal history, because eligibility and approval can vary by facility.
We understand that life changes. If you need to stop visiting, let us know as soon as possible so we can help communicate the change to the prison and the person you visit.
These relationships matter. A clear goodbye can provide closure and keep no one from wondering what happened. The PVS team will help you through the process.
No. Volunteers may not have contact with anyone who is incarcerated in or employed by the prison they will visit.
Visitor Resources
Access training materials, visit report forms, and other resources for active PVS visitors.
