Development and Evaluation of a Training Program for Volunteers Working in Day Treatment

When staff members of a community mental health center's day treatment program for adults with emotional problems found there was not enough time for planning and meeting program goals, they considered using volunteers to help in the treatment process. The center staff worked with the local mental health association to plan the training and use of volunteers. Twenty-five volunteers were initially selected and trained. They evaluated the training through questionnaires immediately after training and after three and six months of service. Respondents felt the training prepared them to perform their duties and understand their roles as volunteers. Volunteers have worked in the program for two and a half years; currently 28 volunteers each work approximately three hours a week.