Union County, NJ – Union County residents who are looking for a unique way to give back to the community can apply to volunteer with the Union County Rape Crisis Center. Volunteers at the Rape Crisis Center provide judgement-free guidance for victims of sexual violence through a phone hotline. They may also accompany victims in person, to help them navigate medical, legal and law enforcement issues.
“Our Rape Crisis Center volunteers help victims of sexual violence take control of their situation by offering compassion, respect, and reliable guidance on victim’s rights and other aspects of advocacy,” said Freeholder Chairman Sergio Granados. “All too often those who experience sexual violence cannot rely on their own family or friends for support, but they can always rely on the Rape Crisis Center.”
The Rape Crisis Center is one of Union County’s longest-running volunteer programs. It has been part of the Union County Department of Human Services since 1984.
All volunteers are trained, mentored and supervised by professional staff from the Rape Crisis Center.
Volunteers must be Union County residents at least 18 years of age, with a valid driver’s license and their own vehicle.
No previous experience in counseling or related fields is required. The training program qualifies Rape Crisis Center volunteers for certification as Confidential Sexual Violence Advocates.
The next round of training sessions will take place every Tuesday and Thursday from September 11 through October 30 from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
An interview is required before attending the training sessions. Union County residents who are interested in becoming Volunteer Advocates can contact the Rape Crisis Center now at 908-233-7273 to schedule an interview.
The Rape Crisis Center offices are located at the Colleen Fraser Building, at the Union County complex in Westfield.
For more information about the volunteer experience at the Rape Crisis Center call 908-233-7273 or visit the Rape Crisis Center blog, unioncountyrapecrisiscenter.blogspot.com.
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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.
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