VACRO is one of the oldest
non-denominational welfare organisations in Victoria and
has provided support to offenders and their families
since the organisation was founded in 1872 as the
Discharged Prisoners’ Aid Society.
VACRO’s original focus was on
addressing the material and practical needs of prisoners
and their families. VACRO has retained its
commitment to meeting the needs of this particularly
vulnerable and often excluded client group while
developing new, professional approaches to service
delivery. VACRO now provides information,
practical resources, personal support and specialist
referral. We work with individuals and
families at the time of arrest, through the Court
process and in correctional settings, placing a special
emphasis on transition and reintegration.
VACRO’s work is directed towards
reducing reoffending and building safer communities.
We focus our work on improving public safety by
providing support to those at risk of harming themselves
or others. VACRO is committed to creating pathways
for participants to re-build their lives and find new
and constructive opportunities for economic and social
participation.
2012 will be VACRO’s 140th year as
part of the landscape of criminal justice services and
client advocacy in Victoria. From its
origins as the Prisoners’ Aid Society, VACRO has had a
strong connection to the ethos of volunteering from
committed members of the public who give freely of their
time, knowing that they can make a difference.
VACRO's mission is to provide support and information
for individuals charged with a criminal offence, offenders,
prisoners and their families; as well as a leadership, education,
training and research on the Justice System for the Community
VACRO work is focused in three main areas:
If you would like to support VACRO consider
joining VACRO or donating, or
volunteering your time and skills. You can
also check the
employment page for the latest job opportunities.
