Media Release

​ALACHUA COUNTY, FL - The Alachua County Victim Services & Rape Crisis Center is seeking volunteers to serve as hotline counselors. Hotline counselors answer the agency’s phone lines while the office is closed (nights and weekends). Volunteers must first complete 40 hours of training, which includes an online course, and a nine-week training class. The next training class begins on September 14, 2016, on Wednesdays from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Community Support Services office (218 S.E. 24th St, Gainesville).

The online course is provided by the Florida Council Against Sexual Violence. The training classes include group training, one-on-one sessions, and interactive role playing facilitated by the agency’s staff.

“We are looking for caring and compassionate citizens looking to make a difference in the lives of individuals hurt by crime,” said Alachua County Victim Services & Rape Crisis Center Director Laura Kalt. “Establishing connection with a caring and non-judgmental supporter can be the biggest catalyst for healing for many trauma survivors. Hotline counselors have the opportunity to become a part of this healing process."

Visit the Victim Services & Rape Crisis Center website to apply online.

For more information, contact Program Manager Jessie Lazarchik at 352-264-6767 or jlazarchik@alachuacounty.us.