A special leave may be granted for the purpose of:

(1) Attending educational programs;

(2) Improving job skills;

(3) Attending trade licensing examinations;

(4) Being interviewed for employment;

(5) Participating in drug abuse, delinquency, or crime prevention programs;

(6) Participating as a volunteer for a nonprofit organization or governmental agency in an activity serving the general public; or

(7) For any purpose which the department deems beneficial to both the inmate and the public.