Gib Lewis Chaplaincy Department

H O S P I T A L I T Y P R O G R A M

GUIDELINES & HELPFUL HINTS

You are a heartwarming person. Most visiting families are in crisis, have children, and come long distances. Visiting a son or husband for the first time often brings tears. Children get restless, and officers are taxed with visitation logistics. The Hospitality Program provides the family with a comfort zone that touches many people: crisis counseling to new comers and all, ministry to children, and freeing the officers of restless children.

Do ---

--Be yourself, the good natured person who cares about people and their problems

--Listen; be kind, patient, and careful

--Know the visitation sergeant and introduce yourself when you arrive

--Work with the coordinator, for she works closely with the chaplain and wardens in scheduling, guideline development, and security concerns

--Refer pastoral needs or difficult problems to the chaplain

--Keep the supplies in order for the next shift of volunteers

--Remember that this is a state prison and more restrictive than families prefer

--Report any security concerns or suspicions to the sergeant or chaplain in private

--Expect people from a variety of cultures, backgrounds, and economic standings

--Let someone know when you go to the ODR to eat; put puzzles and other loose items away from children in your absence

--Read the Gib Lewis Volunteer Handbook on occasion to refresh yourself

* * * * *

Do ---

--Not discipline a child: ask the parent or ask an officer for help with the family

--Not help a child to the restroom or change diapers: always ask the parent

--Not give or accept money, addresses, or anything to or from visitors and inmates; or offer rides to anyone--refer them to the chaplain

--Not betray confidences of a non-security nature or tell negative things about families

______ Coordinator M.G. Maness, Chaplain

______ Phone 409-283-8181, Ext. 245

P.O. Box 9000

Woodville, TX 75990