Book Clubs for Inmates is a volunteer-led organization; we cannot do our work without our invaluable volunteers. This month, we’re shining a spotlight on our amazing ChIRP volunteers at Drumheller Institution (Alberta). Pictured above from left to right (with a regular Drumheller visitor in the background): Cindy, JoAnn, Sofia, and Corinne.
We asked our volunteers three questions: When did you start volunteering with ChIRP? What do you enjoy about volunteering with ChIRP? What is your #1 read-aloud recommendation? Read their answers below!
Cindy
I began volunteering with ChIRP in the fall of 2019, but COVID lockdowns prevented us from continuing. JoAnn and I rebirthed ChIRP at the Drumheller Institution in the fall of 2024.
Volunteering for ChIRP has been one of the most meaningful volunteer experiences of my life. For a few moments these inmates get to forget the difficulties of their present and just show up as “dad.” Sometimes they sing to their kids. Sometimes they tell a joke. Sometimes there are hidden tears their kids won’t ever see. Often, they have endearing nicknames for their kids. And almost always they communicate their love and longing to be present with their kids. The deep spaces of connection from parent to child through a shared book is the very best part of ChIRP.
JoAnn
Let me begin by saying, the time I spend with ChiRP is one of my favourite volunteer activities. My first involvement with ChiRP was in 2019, just before Covid. We were all organized to begin when we were halted by the country-wide lockdown. It was so disappointing. Then in 2024, my neighbour Cindy and I decided that ChiRP was important, and we decided to undertake its organization in Drumheller Institution. We enlisted the help of two more retired educators (Corinne and Sofia) and our inaugural meeting was planned for September 2024. We have never looked back.
Each month I look forward with anticipation to meeting our clients. I appreciate the time and care each man takes when picking a book for their family member. Returning members tell us how much their children enjoy receiving books in the mail. I also enjoy the time I spend visiting with the men as they wait their turn to record the book they have chosen.
I have no answer for the question regarding a favourite book. The books chosen by our members is done quite independently. Mostly, the men know the type of book their child is interested in and set out searching for that book. Corinne is very good at helping those who ask for assistance. The variety of books chosen is wide and varied. We have a strong team and together with Sonia, our librarian, we are experiencing great success at the Drumheller Institution.
Sofia
Hi, my name is Sofia and I began volunteering with the CHIRP program in September 2024. The program’s main goal—to keep families together—has grown close to my heart. The comments from the incarcerated participants are a testament to the positive impact of the program. My once-a-month commitment makes a real difference in these families’ lives. The participants often voice the anticipation their children experience while waiting for their monthly book and recording and hearing the voice of a loved one is nothing short of priceless. This has re-shaped my perspective as a volunteer.
I hope the CHIRP program continues for many years to come. Being there when a participant expressed, “This is the best way to let my child know that he is loved,” is exactly why I am so proud to facilitate this vital work.
Corinne
I become involved with CHIRP in 2024 at Drumheller Institution at the request of Joanne. As a lover of reading, and as a retired elementary teacher, I mostly discuss books with the clients and help them find a suitable match for their child. They all seem to really know their children, and they take the selection seriously. I have enjoyed many conversations about children’s books as well as adult titles they might enjoy. Children in general love the silliness of Robert Munsch books, like Thomas’ Snowsuit. Munsch’s Love You Forever is another great book to read.
Cindy, JoAnn, Sofia, and Corinne: THANK YOU for being a part of ChIRP!
Your time and dedication makes such a meaningful difference,
and we are so grateful for all that you do.
