CSC & Volunteer Testimonials
Book Clubs for Inmates (BCFI) is supported by over 150 volunteers, including members of local communities and Correctional Services Staff (CSC), who generously donate their time as book club facilitators, parolee supporters, directors, readers, and others who have found a variety of ways to share their talents with BCFI.
Why People Volunteer
- Build Essential Skills: To promote literacy, critical thinking, and respectful listening.
- Foster Human Connection: To create safe spaces for civil discussion and personal dignity.
- Experience Personal Growth: To be a part of a national network of volunteers witnessing real change.
“Deep sense of satisfaction.”
I have volunteered with a number of community organizations and non-profits, and NONE have brought me the deep sense of satisfaction that the book club has: the inmates are so profoundly grateful for every moment we spend with them in civilized, intelligent discussion.
– Isobel Heathcote, volunteer at Beaver Creek Institution, Medium Unit
“So involved in the conversation.”
We are constantly amazed at the depth of some of the fellows. The conversation had gone from the First World War to the Second to Rwanda, to Syria, to Iraq, and on and on… The announcer on the intercom came through with the next projects but these fellows didn’t even stop and listen because they were so involved in the conversation.
– Lorna Watkinson-Zimmer, volunteer at Bowden Institution
“Positive bright light for inmates.”
Prison can be a very dark and negative place to be for inmates, but by having an inmate book club, it provides a very stimulating and positive bright light for inmates.
– Bob Fasching, Librarian, CSC, Warkworth Institution
“Empowering the women.”
The book club brings together women in a positive environment who normally would not interact on a daily basis. This builds communication, pro social skills, and their views on the world are changed. It has been a great honour to have Lawrence Hill and Marina Nemat come speak with our groups, empowering the women, and enabling them to see outside of themselves and to have hope for their futures.
– Carroll Calder, Librarian, CSC, Grand Valley Institution for Women
