The Department of Corrections relies on volunteers who make invaluable contributions by providing direct or indirect services to offenders and/or staff in our facilities. Whether it is a non-profit or civic organization or just an individual who wants to make a difference, there are countless ways someone can help. Volunteers are not compensated directly for the services they provide.

If you are interested in volunteering your efforts, please read the Volunteer Handbook, which can be found as an attachment to DOC Policy 300-01 Facility Access and ID Requirements. The handbook includes information on interacting with inmates, the different levels of volunteers, working with the facility Cultural Activities Coordinator and the required forms. You can contact the Cultural Activities Coordinator at each facility to learn about the available opportunities to volunteer.

Prospective volunteers should also familiarize themselves with other DOC policies that would impact them if they choose to volunteer. You can access the following policies under the About Us tab or on the homepage of the website under Resources.

100-01 Mission, Vision, Values

100-05  Staff Code of Ethics

100-08 Staff Dress and Grooming Standards

100-10 Staff Anti-Harassment and Discrimination Policy

100-12 Screening of Staff, Volunteers and Contractors for Prior Sexual Abuse

700-21 Influenza Vaccination Control Plan

900-01 Staff Training Requirements

100-18  Tobacco Products and Electronic Cigarettes-Use and Possession

1100-01 Prison Rape Elimination Act 

500-07  Offender Religious and Cultural Activities

DISCLAIMER: This is not an exhaustive list of applicable policies. For example, some policies include volunteers in the definition of staff. DOC policies that are considered public (available to offenders) are available on the home page of the DOC website under Resources and also under the About Us tab. When policies are updated, they are posted on the DOC website. A list of recently updated policies that may impact volunteers is available below.

While the Volunteer Handbook includes a list of items that are not allowed to brought into our facilities, South Dakota Codified Law 24-2-22 specifies that those who bring unauthorized items into one or our facilities with an intent to deliver that item or items to an inmate is guilty of a Class 6 felony.

To access the appropriate form for facility access as a volunteer, please visit the Forms section of this website.