News Releases

10,000 Volunteers Work with the Correctional Service of Canada to Make Your Communities Safe

Ottawa — December 5, 2003 - Over 10,000 volunteers work with the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) each year contributing to public safety and helping offenders. Volunteers help bridge the gap between the institution and the community, thereby assisting offenders to return to the community as law-abiding citizens when they are released.

"On this International Volunteer Day, I would like to take the opportunity to express CSC's appreciation for the valuable contribution made by these remarkable individuals," said Commissioner Lucie McClung. "We are fortunate to have individuals who dedicate countless hours to the reintegration of offenders, and thus to the building of safe and strong communities in Canada."

Community support is essential to the safe reintegration of offenders, since most are serving fixed sentences and will eventually return to their communities. Studies have shown that the period of greatest likelihood for re-offending is immediately after release from penitentiary. Volunteers help released offenders re-adjust to life in the community by acting as role models, providing contact with the community, access to medical services, social and employment services, churches and other community faith and support groups - in short, keeping a watchful eye to the benefit of all.

For Information

Michele Pilon-Santilli
Media Relations
Correctional Service of Canada
(613) 943-2573