The Alachua County Victim Services and Rape Crisis Center is seeking caring and compassionate volunteers. The Center is particularly looking to recruit bilingual Spanish-English speaking volunteers. Fall volunteer training is held over nine weeks, beginning on Wednesday, September 18, 2019. The Victim Services and Rape Crisis Center asks for a minimum commitment of nine months or 36 shifts on the helpline after completing the training.
Volunteers serve as counselors who answer the agency's 24/7 crisis helpline while the office is closed (nights, weekends, and holidays). 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.
“Volunteers make a difference in the lives of individuals affected by violent crime,” said Program Manager Jessie Lazarchik. “There is no fee for the training, and applicants do not need to possess any specific degrees or experience to attend.”
For more information or to request an application, contact Jessie Lazarchik at jlazarchik@alachuacounty.us or 352-264-6767 or Ashley Flattery at 352-264-6763.