Analysis of Serve the City Nairobi’s Visit to G.K. Prison: Impact on Volunteers and Environmental Practices

Abstract

This study analyzes the impact of Serve the City Kenya’s (STC Kenya) visit to G.K. Prison in Nairobi on volunteers’ attitudes and perceptions regarding social responsibility and environmental practices. The visit, conducted on December 4, 2024, sought to assess how engagement with inmates influences volunteers in line with Serve the City International’s core values, which include humility, compassion, courage, respect, love, and hope, while exploring how volunteerism can foster sustainable environmental behaviors within correctional facilities. Using a pre- and post-visit quantitative survey design, data were collected from 20 volunteers, with 12 pre-visit and 10 post-visit responses analyzed. Findings revealed that 75% of volunteers reported increased empathy, open-mindedness, and appreciation for others' dignity following the visit. Additionally, over 80% agreed that inmates would benefit from environmental education and that small, consistent actions can promote sustainability. The study concludes that volunteerism in prison contexts not only enhances participants’ personal and moral growth but also creates pathways to promote environmental stewardship as part of inmate rehabilitation. Recommendations include integrating environmental education into volunteer programs and expanding partnerships between correctional institutions and community-based organizations for sustainable transformation.