Elizabeth Fry volunteer programs include direct service to clients including practical assistance and support, recreational and special interest activities, community information, and participation in special events within the agency. These services are offered at the Vanier Centre for Women, College Park Court, in the community, and at the Elizabeth Fry offices.

Volunteers who are prepared to make a major time commitment provide support to women attending Finch Court, Scarborough Court, Court of Appeals, Family Court, and Old City Hall Court, and accompany clients to appointments with probation officers and to selected medical appointments. Volunteers who staff Elizabeth Fry Toronto's Board committees and sub-committees assist with fundraising, special events, community relations, public speaking, and policy development. Volunteers are also involved in office support facilitation. Policy development along with Agency goals and directions are developed in conjunction with volunteers on our Board of Directors and our various committees and sub- committees. Volunteers may also have a role in fundraising, special events, community relations, in public speaking on behalf of the Agency and on the issues central to its role.

All volunteers receive a general orientation. Direct service volunteers undergo an intensive orientation and are provided with additional training specific to the area which they have chosen to be the main focus of their interest. Skill upgrading professional development will be offered periodically for interested volunteers.

Volunteers will automatically receive membership in the Elizabeth Fry Society and are offered all benefits attendant upon that membership. The Elizabeth Fry Society requires a one year commitment from all volunteers, strict adherence to our Confidentiality Policy, our Anti-Discrimination Policy and to our Code of Ethical Standards.

Volunteers who are interested in working with women at the Detention Center will be visiting the Vanier Center for Women in Milton.

Upon completion of the volunteer training, the placement interview, and references, volunteers must also complete a Government of Canada Personal Screening Consent and Authorization Form. If a volunteer is interested in participating in the prison program at the Vanier Centre for Women in Milton a Canadian Police Information Centre (CIPC) Form must also be completed.

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