The Volunteer Program of the Harris County Juvenile Probation Department
The movement of volunteerism in the Harris County Juvenile Probation Department provides a positive supplement to the Departentıs direct youth services. This is due largely to dedicated volunteers who have a genuine desire to help the youth of Harris County. The services that are available to the youth are both increased and enhanced by many volunteers.
In any given year there are approximately 170 volunteers working in all areas of the Department. There are a variety of resources used for the recruitment of volunteers, such as the Houston Legal Assistants Association Pro-Bono Committee, the Volunteer Center, corporate contracts, speeches and ³word of mouth.²
All prospective volunteers are thoroughly screened by the Volunteer Coordinator. After acceptance, the volunteer is made aware of the Orientation Program. At that time, the volunteer is assigned to a specific area of Probation.
The orientation is a vital part of the volunteerıs progress in the program. The orientation provides a good overview of the Department, along with information on the basic responsibilities of the volunteer, not only legally, but morally. After orientation, the volunteer will receive detailed''on the jo'' training within the unit he or she is assigned.
The volunteer's progress is monitored by ongoing evaluation. This can take the form of both verbal and written communication. This process is very important in evaluating and monitoring the volunteer program.
The use of volunteers within the Department has been sanctioned by the Juvenile Board.''It is the policy of the Juvenile Board of Harris County that Interns, Court Volunteers, Houston Legal Assistants, and others be utilized in all areas where their services have a positive effect on the rehabilitation of the child.''
The volunteer program is rewarding for the volunteers who offer their time and talents as well as the youth who benefit from them. The success of the volunteer program shows the need for community involvement with the Probation Department in achieving its goal of helping the youth of Harris County.
TEXAS PARALEGAL JOURNAL
Summer 1996
©1996 Legal Assistants Division, State Bar of Texas