A Message to Volunteers
Thank you for your thoughtful and compassionate work. We deeply appreciate the care, attention, and commitment you bring to your visits. A few points to keep in mind as you undertake this important work:
Your presence matters!
The most valuable contribution you bring is your Presence for the people you visit. This human connection is deeply appreciated.
Interested in volunteering?
The Farmville DVN relies on a group of dedicated, compassionate volunteers to lessen the isolation and vulnerability of those detained by providing visits, letters, books (in Spanish and English), modest financial support, and support of their families during this traumatic separation.
While Farmville DVN always appreciates Spanish-speaking volunteers, this is not required; we welcome volunteers of all language backgrounds.
An orientation for visitation is provided for new volunteers, as needed. Debriefing sessions, in Farmville and on Zoom for out-of-towners, are offered monthly for experienced volunteers to discuss the joys and challenges of visitations.
If interested in becoming a volunteer, please click the button below to complete our volunteer interest form:
Visitation Scheduling
If you have completed an orientation and/or have shadowed an experienced volunteer, and are ready to schedule a visit with an assigned detainee, click the button below to go to the scheduling page for the Farmville Detention Center.
Reminders for Volunteers
IDENTIFY as a visiting friend: While your expertise and perspectives enrich your interactions, your primary role is to visit as a supportive friend, not as a provider of financial, legal, counseling, or other professional services.
NO EDUCATIONAL PREREQUISITES REQUIRED: You do not need formal training in counseling, law, or financial advising — your empathy, listening, and consistency are what make your work powerful.
TRAVEL and COORDINATION: We have volunteers from multiple cities, which underscores the dedication and intentionality behind this group. This shared commitment strengthens the collective impact of your visits. If possible, reach out to other volunteers in your area to coordinate visits and travel together. This is not only great for the environment, but provides you with a companion to share in this deeply emotional work.
EXPENSES and REIMBURSEMENT: While some volunteers choose to support their detainee's comissary account, phone account, or by sending books, this is not required. Farmville DVN has a modest budget to cover some of these expenses.
If you'd like to hear more about what visitation is like, listen to this interview with two of our volunteers:
