Volunteer Victim Service Advocate (Unpaid)

Purpose/Objective:

To provide support, advocacy, and crisis intervention services to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault while assisting the Self Help Center in meeting the needs of survivors in the community.

Description:

The Volunteer Advocate provides peer support and advocacy services to individuals experiencing domestic violence or sexual assault. Volunteers assist with victim intake, provide emotional support, assess client needs, and help develop safety plans or next steps. Volunteers will help answer the 24-hour domestic violence hotline and provide information, referrals, and support to callers. This role requires compassion, confidentiality, and the ability to work in emotionally intense situations.

Skills/Qualifications:

• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to remain calm and supportive in high-stress situations
• Ability to work independently with limited supervision
• Compassion, empathy, and good listening skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality
• Ability to build positive working relationships with staff, volunteers, and community partners
• Awareness of personal values and how they impact working with survivors
• Must pass a Federal and DFS background check
• High school diploma or GED
• Must be 18 or older

Key Responsibilities:

 Assist victims in assessing their situation and identifying possible options

 Volunteer for the 24-hour domestic violence crisis hotline

 Complete required documentation and statistical reports according to agency policies

 Maintain confidentiality and follow the Self Help Center Code of Ethics

 Assist with other duties as assigned

Time and Length of Commitment:

Volunteers must complete the agency’s 40-hour advocacy training and commit to a minimum of one hour of service per week, including possible on-call shifts for the 24-hour crisis line. Volunteers are encouraged to commit to at least six months of service.

Training/Support Provided:

Volunteers receive 40 hours of advocacy training covering topics such as domestic violence, sexual assault, crisis intervention, victim advocacy, and community resources. Ongoing supervision and support are provided by the Volunteer Coordinator and agency staff.

Location and Hours:

Self Help Center740 Luker Lane, Evansville, WY 82636

Volunteers assist in the office and provide support through the 24-hour domestic violence crisis line. Hours are flexible depending on the volunteer’s schedule, but volunteers must complete a minimum of 1 hour of work per week and may also help cover crisis line shifts.

Pay: $8.00 per hour

Expected hours: 1.0 – 2.0 per week

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Evansville, WY 82636