FAQ

Volunteers are an integral part of our program. As a volunteer, you are a part of our model to create systemic change and shift mindsets!

Volunteering is a mutually transformative and beneficial experience for both Defy Entrepreneurs in Training (EITs) and volunteers. Through Defy’s programs, all participants experience human connection, changing perceptions about human potential, challenging of mindsets, and personal growth.

Join us if you:

• Are 21+ years old and have at least 2 years of work experience in any field. All educational backgrounds and types of work experience are welcome (see specific volunteer opportunities for additional recommended experience).
• Have an open mind, an open heart, a willingness to suspend judgment, and an interest in learning more about the criminal legal system.
• A willingness to make the minimum time commitment an event requires

Defy event locations:

• Prison-based: These events take place inside prison facilities and are for EITs who are currently incarcerated.  Prisons are frequently located well outside of metropolitan areas, and events will often include charter bus transportation to and from the events (check the specific event descriptions for details). We can also help with connecting carpools at time of sign-up.
• Community-based: These events take place in metropolitan areas and are for recently-released EITs, EITs who plan to launch a business and are enrolled in Defy’s entrepreneurship programs, or for EITs who are enrolled at transitional facilities, where they are either still incarcerated or recently released.
• Virtual: These events take place over Zoom and support EITs who are no longer incarcerated and are at different stages of their reentry journeys.