Prison visitation is the core of M2/W2. Since 1966, M2/W2 has responded to Jesus’ call to visit the prisoner in a simple offer of support and friendship.



In conjunction with various professionals working with the prisoner, and eventually upon his/her release, the volunteer helps orient the prisoner towards successful reintegration into the community.



All prospective volunteers are asked to participate in a one-to-one orientation session with an M2/W2 Staff Coordinator and one complete Core Training session. The purpose is to provide pertinent information about the M2/W2 program and the prison system. It also provides opportunity to explore and discuss personal involvement. CSC (Correctional Services Canada) also requires new volunteers to take their three-hour training course.



Additional meetings for volunteers are held throughout the year to provide more detailed information about the criminal justice system and as an inspirational sharing experience. M2/W2 staff are always available for consultation. Volunteers are always encouraged to take initiative in consulting staff.  Prisoners who get an M2/W2 volunteer must want to be in the program. They must submit an application for a volunteer to the M2/W2 Association. All prisoners who apply are interviewed by an M2/W2 Staff Coordinator prior to being matched.



Volunteers are recruited from the Christian community primarily through church presentations, one-to-one contacts and referrals from other volunteers. Volunteers must also submit an application to the M2/W2 Association.



It is the responsibility of the M2/W2 Coordinator to match volunteer and prisoner. A number of factors form the basis upon which a Coordinator makes this decision, such as: information; impressions the Coordinator has gained through personal conversations with volunteer and prisoner applicants; information on application forms; length of time the prisoner has waited for a volunteer; and general assessment regarding the compatibility of a specific volunteer and prisoner.
The selection process is obviously limited so it is always hoped that the volunteer’s love and grace toward the prisoner will help overcome differences that will arise.



You, as a volunteer, need to make a very real commitment in terms of personal concern, time and involvement. Many people in prison have no one else on the outside who cares and so the volunteer may be the only friend (or the only ‘straight friend’) that the prisoner has from the community. The person may have a few other friends and relatives. Either way, your commitment to friendship is a considerable responsibility which should not be entered into without careful thought and prayer.



Please contact us for further information.