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Giving Back, Giving Strength

Union County, NJ – For more than 30 years, Union County residents have gained personal growth through community service as volunteers with the Union County Rape Crisis Center. New volunteers are welcome to join now and receive a free training course that qualifies them to serve with the Rape Crisis Center as confidential advocates for victims of sexual violence.

The Rape Crisis Center began in 1984 as a volunteer program run by the Union County Department of Human Services. Its offices are located at the Colleen Fraser Building at the Union County complex in Westfield, at 300 North Avenue East.

“The Rape Crisis Center helps victims of sexual violence manage a life-changing crisis and restore their sense of empowerment and human dignity,” said Freeholder Chairman Sergio Granados. “By providing this support, our volunteers also find new reservoirs of strength within themselves. It is a program that gives back to the whole community.”

RCC volunteers are often the only peer support available to victims of sexual violence, many of whom cannot turn to family or friends for help.

Using mobile phones, the volunteers run a 24/7 hotline to provide callers with guidance on navigating the medical, legal and emotional aftermath of sexual violence.

Volunteers may also provide in-person support. For example, they may accompany victims to a medical procedure or court appearance.

All RCC volunteers receive a training course that qualifies them as certified Confidential Advocates.

No previous experience in counseling is required. Professional RCC staff and seasoned volunteers provide ongoing support and mentorship for new volunteers.

Volunteers must be at least 18 years old, Union County residents, and have their own car.

To inquire about the next training course, call the Rape Crisis Center hotline, 908-233-7273. 

Additional information on the volunteer experience is available at the Rape Crisis Center blog, unioncountyrapecrisiscenter.blogspot.

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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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