Over 37 years of helping learners learn
READ Society Needs Volunteer Tutors for Vancouver Island Regional Correction
Centre Inmates
VICTORIA, BC - May 13 2015: Inmates of the Vancouver Island Regional Correctional Centre (VIRCC) will
have opportunities to upgrade their literacy and numeracy skills in preparation for re-entry into the job
market thanks to a project being organized by the Victoria READ Society in collaboration with officials of
the VIRCC and Cowichan Valley School District #79.
"The inability to read and write well may not be a direct cause of criminal behaviour, but it is
clear from the research that low literacy and crime are related," said READ Executive Director Trisha
Chestnutt. "Too often, impoverished adults do not have the literacy skills to get into job training
programs."
READ Society Director and program teacher, Steve Newton, said: "Education can better prepare
these men for re-entry into the community as capable and employable citizens. Statistics Canada
research indicates that for every dollar spent on this kind of literacy programming there is nearly a 250
per cent return on investment."
For this reason, READ began to revitalize this volunteer-based program in January of 2015 with
input and support from Camosun College, DeCoda Literacy Solutions and a range of other active
community leaders. Literacy Victoria had pioneered the program but had to discontinue their
operations in August of last year.
"The Cowichan School District is pleased to participate in this revitalized program – from literacy
tutoring to a school program where inmates can obtain credits and work towards their Adult Graduation
or Dogwood Certificate," said David Bellis of SD 79. “The teachers and administration of the Cowichan
Adult Learning Centre are excited to be part of this program and it is hoped that next year, their
involvement will be even greater. Janine Hannis of the Ministry of Education and VIRCC’s Assistant
Deputy Warden Scott Dempsey should be congratulated for their efforts to revive the educational
program at VIRCC.”
VIRCC's Deputy Warden of Programs, Marna Johns, said, “We are thankful to the READ Society
for partnering with us to tutor and support inmates with reading and their course work. Building
literacy skills can be a life-changing experience for inmates, giving them the ability to further their
education and return to the community armed with more confidence and skills that will help them gain
employment and make a life after release. We’d all like to pass along our appreciation to the READ
Society’s dedicated volunteers who are truly making a difference at our correctional centre.”
One inmate, Christian, commented about the tutoring program: "I really felt like the system had
given up on us. After working with tutors inside this prison, I've been able to complete my high school
prerequisites and am now enrolling in a culinary arts program for the fall. I've never had an opportunity
like this before, and I've never been more excited about my future."
Professionals from READ, School District 79, VIRCC staff, volunteers and students are currently working
out the details of curriculum, instruction, resources, necessary training of volunteer instructors, etc. The
Centre for Indigenous Education and Community Connections is also being consulted to identify
culturally appropriate programming that might be offered to First Nations inmates.
"What is essential right now is that we get tutors (men and women) trained and into the correctional
centre delivering courses that the inmates find useful as they plan their futures," said Newton.
People interested in volunteering at VIRCC are encouraged to apply. Matthew Burke, READ's VIRCC
Volunteer Coordinator said, “We are happy to answer questions from potential volunteers regarding the
education credentials and security clearances involved. Generally, a tutor will be needed for two hours
per week for the school term. Since the collaboration with READ began, the number of tutoring staff has
doubled and we are able to support more inmates than ever before."
All VIRCC tutors are first screened by READ's Executive Director and Volunteer Program Coordinator, and
vetted by the VIRCC administration. Criminal and vulnerable population record checks are required.
Individuals who possess some content knowledge in English and/or mathematics and have a strong
desire to contribute to the betterment of others are invited to apply. While a teaching background is
not mandatory, it will prove helpful. Individuals who have varied life experiences and are willing to give
their time are welcome to apply.
The Vancouver Island Regional Correctional Centre on Wilkinson Road is a maximum security
correctional centre for inmates of all levels of risk, operated by BC Corrections. The facility now houses
approximately 300 inmates at any given time, either serving sentences or awaiting trial.
For further information, please contact:
Carol Carman
Co-chair - Victoria READ Society
Phone: (250) 896-5697 (cell)
Or check our home page at www.readsociety.bc.ca