Become A BTL Volunteer
The only qualifications necessary to become a volunteer for Bridges To Life are a willing heart, listening ear, and desire to help others! Volunteers need not be of a particular religious background or possess counseling-related credentials or experience. Volunteers may participate as crime victim speakers, as small group facilitators, or in both roles.
STEP 1: Get TDCJ Volunteer Approval
To be a volunteer in a Texas prison, you must be approved by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ):
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Complete a TDCJ Volunteer Application form found on the TDCJ website. (In PROGRAM OF INTEREST section, check box for Chaplaincy; at bottom right, check OTHER and enter Bridges To Life.)
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Attend a TDCJ Volunteer training (most on Saturdays throughout the year).
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Print out your completed Volunteer Application form and sign. Bring with you to the TDCJ training and submit it there.
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Your application will take several weeks to be processed, including a background check. Once completed, you will be an approved TDCJ volunteer for 2 years.
STEP 2: Get BTL Volunteer Training
After becoming an approved TDCJ volunteer, you must attend a Bridges To Life Volunteer Training. (If you are interested in volunteering only in non-prison facilities, TDCJ approval is not necessary.)
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Consult the Our Staff page to find the BTL Regional Coordinator in your area.
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Call or email your Regional Coordinator to arrange a Volunteer Facilitator and/or Crime Victim Speaker training.
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At the training you will receive a Facilitator Manual, Restoring Peace curriculum book and study guide, and name badge.
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Note: Some alternative facilities may require their own training in addition to BTL Volunteer Training.
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For volunteer requirements in states other than Texas, consult your state's Department of Corrections.