Volunteer Application

Thank you for your interest in our volunteer training program. All volunteers receive the training necessary to help support survivors of crime and sexual assault. Upon completion of the training, volunteers become certified Sexual Assault Counselors under NYS Department of Health.

We welcome prospective volunteers from diverse backgrounds and experience and hope you will consider joining our team. Please note that this application is confidential and will only be reviewed by Crime Victims Services Program Staff.

Volunteer Requirements:

• Must be 18 years of age or older
• Complete 30-hour training course and attend all hybrid (virtual and in-person) training sessions
• Maintain professional conduct and adhere to strict rules of confidentiality at all times
• Cover two or three, 12-hour hotline shifts per month
• Respond to hotline calls immediately and get to the emergency department or police department within 30 minutes
• Complete 10 hours of continuing education credits per year
• Attend monthly meetings for ongoing training, education and case and protocol review
• Ready access to a telephone and transportation
• Possession of, or ability to learn and utilize, crisis intervention, listening and support skills

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Ability to work with people from all backgrounds Ability to remain calm in a crisis situation
• Ability to conduct self-evaluation and employ positive learning Must be conscientious about completing and submitting all appropriate paperwork in timely manner
• Must be conscientious about covering or getting a substitute for shifts when unable to be on duty for emergency reasons only Ability to assume responsibility and demonstrate independent judgment
• Utilize designated procedures for working with the police, hospital and program staff.
• Utilizes designated procedures to work with victim.
• Active listening, crisis intervention, and support skills. Encourages victims to make own decisions and regain control.
• Provides information to victim and family regarding hospital, police and court procedures.
• Provides information and/or referral on options available for therapy, self-protection, and continued support by our program.
• Complete appropriate forms and paperwork for office records. Follow all program procedures outlined in the Volunteer Manual.
• Maintain client confidentiality at all costs.