How to Become a Volunteer Minister at Robertson County Jail

The Robertson County Detention Facility accepts applications for the volunteer ministry program. If you want to serve inside the jail, you’ll apply first, complete the required paperwork, and wait for approval before you’re granted access.

Volunteer ministers must meet strict qualifications. Jail Administration runs a background investigation on every applicant, and you'll need security clearance before entering the facility. You must also be at least 18 years old.

Application Checklist

• ✓ Complete the approved ministry application form.
• ✓ Have the required section of the application notarized before you submit your packet.

• ✓ Include a letter from your sponsoring church on church letterhead with complete contact information (church name, address, and telephone number), signed by the Pastor, Chairman of the Deacon’s board, Church Trustee, or equivalent.
• ✓ Make sure the letter includes the church’s federally approved IRS tax exemption number (and if your sponsoring church doesn’t have one, you still must provide the sponsoring letter on church letterhead with the same contact info and signature requirements).

Once you apply, Jail Administration runs a background check. You won't have access to the facility until you're approved and granted security clearance.

Before you’re granted access, you must attend the four-hour training course provided by Robertson County Detention Facility staff. Training isn’t a one-and-done requirement, either - these classes must be attended annually.

You’ll also be asked to sign a release of liability waiver holding the Robertson County Sheriff’s Office and Robertson County Detention Facility blameless in the event of an assault or accident while you’re volunteering (either inside the facility or on county property). And to be eligible at all, you must be at least 18 years old.

Timing matters. Your application has to be completed and submitted at least 15 days before the orientation class date you’re requesting so there’s time for processing and approval.

Mail your completed application packet to: Cpl. L. Royer, Programs Robertson County Detention Facility 311 5th Avenue East Springfield, TN 37172

1. Pick an orientation date and work backward - submit your completed packet at least 15 days before the orientation class you’re requesting.
2. Plan for the background investigation - Jail Administration must complete the background check and approve you for security clearance before access into the facility is granted.