The Alachua County Victim Services and Rape Crisis Center is seeking caring and compassionate volunteers to make a difference in the lives of individuals affected by violent crime. The Center is particularly looking to recruit bilingual Spanish-English speaking volunteers. Spring volunteer training is held over the course of nine weeks, beginning on Wednesday, January 30, 2019. The Victim Services & Rape Crisis Center asks for a minimum commitment of nine months or 36 shifts.
Volunteers serve as counselors who answer the agency's 24/7 crisis helpline while the office is closed (nights, weekends, and holidays) and provide face-to-face crisis intervention services to crime victims alongside a staff counselor. Training includes 30 hours of online coursework in crisis intervention, advocacy, and the dynamics of sexual violence and interpersonal crimes. In addition to the online course, applicants meet weekly for group training classes, and interactive role plays facilitated by the agency's staff. Upon completion, volunteers are certified in Advocacy Core Training through the Florida Council Against Sexual Violence.
There is no fee for the training, and applicants do not need to possess any specific degrees or experience to attend.
Potential volunteers must submit the online application.
View the Helpline Volunteer flyer.
For more information, contact Jessie Lazarchik at 352-264-6767 or Ashley Flattery at 352-264-6763.