What Do Volunteers Do?
Volunteers work with the Sexual Assault Program in a variety of ways. They provide direct support to victim/survivors and their loved ones. This is accomplished in primarily two ways: |
- Crisis Line Advocacy
- Court Advocacy
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| Crisis line advocates staff our 24-hour crisis line from their own home. Their caring voices provide emotional support, referrals, and information about sexual assault, and help callers identify options. During their shift, these trained volunteers are also available to assist a victim/survivor at the hospital and/or law enforcement. |
Court advocates are volunteers who advocate on behalf of victim/survivors within the legal systems. They are typically assigned to specific cases after a report has been made to the police, and follow a case as it proceeds though the criminal justice system. They provide on-going support, information and referrals, and assist victim/survivors in accessing their rights as crime victims. Court advocates are needed in Dodge, Fillmore and Olmsted counties. |
For questions or additional information call the Victim Services Volunteer Coordinator at 507 328-7276 or email. |
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Interested In Becoming a Volunteer
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, print the application and send the completed application to:
Kristen Barry
Government Center - 4th Floor
151 SE 4th Street
Rochester, MN 55904-3711
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Training Opportunities
Victim Services provides a 40 hour comprehensive training on crisis response and dynamics of sexual assault twice a year. All prospective volunteers must complete this entire training prior to becoming volunteers for Victim Services. The trainings are usually offered in the fall and spring.
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