Mentoring
One to One Mentoring
​
Connections Work mentors provide support and encouragement for individuals incarcerated at the Berks County Jail through regular weekly visits. The volunteer provides support, a connection to the community and acts as a positive role model for the inmate in order to help them prepare for their release back into the community. Volunteers are vital to the program's success!
​
Commitment: Weekly one-hour sessions
​
Requirements: Berks County Jail volunteer clearance, Jail orientation, and individual training with Connections Work Volunteer Coordinator
Educational Tutoring
​
Volunteers work as tutors for individuals incarcerated at the Berks County Jail's Community Reentry Center in the areas of literacy and education.
​
Commitment: Weekly one-hour sessions
​
Requirements: Berks County Jail volunteer clearance, Jail orientation, and individual training with Connections Work Volunteer Coordinator.
Mentoring Volunteers
Karen
Mentoring is a way to positively connect with people who want to make a new start in life. They want to move forward and I believe that given the proper support, they can.
Linda
When I learned about Connections Work, I wanted to be a part of the mentoring program. In the short time I have been a mentor, it has been rewarding, and I feel the experience will allow me the opportunity to grow personally and hopefully make a difference in someone's life.
Jeff
My eyes have been opened to the realities of prison life through the words of the men with whom I have spoken. It has been a real education. I now know what a "cellie" is and what being sent to the "hole" means. Most of all I have realized that these are real people with real feelings that they have chosen to share with me. I am proud to be a part of the program.
Fran
The One to One Mentoring program allowed me to meet people from all walks of life. Collectively, they've enriched me, providing me with a window into the suffering, hopes, and aspirations of people I would never otherwise have had a chance to meet. I highly recommend this experience to everyone.