From a cell phone virgin: "911 phones"--How do I activate an unactivated Verizon cell phone?

I recieved a "911 only" phone from the local domestic violence shelter. It says Verizon on the faceplate. Is it possible to turn this into a "regular" cell phone? I need one badly--don't get me wrong, I am grateful to have even this, but I was thinking to save some money. What I'd like is to activate the phone and use pre-paid cards. And, does Verizon have pre-paid plans that don't charge one of those ghastly $100 activation fees...? Where can I find this out?