Thank you so much for your interest in volunteering with the Parole Preparation Project!
At this time, we have not yet scheduled our next volunteer training. We will make sure to update the training date and application deadline on our website (paroleprepny.org/volunteer) as soon as it is scheduled. All applications are considered on a rolling basis, so you may submit yours at any time and it will be considered in advance of the next training. Please make sure to review all the below information carefully before starting the application.
In the application you'll notice some questions about identity and demographics. We're asking for this information because we prioritize applications from people of color, people who have been directly impacted by incarceration in some way and people who speak Spanish. Please share whatever feels comfortable for you in those sections, and thank you in advance for your responses.
After all applications have been submitted, our staff will review and select applications. You will receive a follow up email to let you know if you have been selected or if unfortunately we are not able to offer you a spot at the upcoming training. All applicants that are not accepted for this round are welcome to apply again for our next round of training in 2026.
Before starting this application, we want you to be prepared for the commitment that being a volunteer requires. Once you've read the list below and feel ready to commit, check the box and move on to the next section.
Our volunteers:
-Attend an introductory Parole Prep Training at our office to learn about the parole process in NY State and our values at Parole Prep
- Work in teams of 2-3 people and support one applicant in prison in New York State
- Work for about 8-12 months on a single case.
- Spend about 3-5 hours per week on an applicant's case, with more time spent at the beginning and end of the assignment. Work can be done in the evenings and on weekends.
- Travel at least three times to the prison where the applicant is located, noting that some prisons are 4+ hours away (driving not required, although a willingness to travel is). Also note that all costs related to travel are reimbursed by the project!
- Attend volunteer meetings every 6 weeks at our office in downtown Manhattan
- Check in regularly with supervisors for feedback and support
