Partner With Local Police to Help Victims Of Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault

LAWRENCEVILLE, N.J. - Jan. 14, 2014 - PRLog -- Twice a year, Womanspace holds two 80-hour trainings for Domestic Violence Victim Response team (DVVRT) members and Sexual Assault Support Services (SASS) Advocates. These volunteers are vital members of the community who work hand-in-hand with Police Departments throughout Mercer County to provide crucial information and support victims in their moment of crisis.

DVVRT and SASS volunteers support victims of domestic violence and sexual assault during the most critical time. Team members’ qualifications include the ability to communicate well with others, being a good listener, and maintaining confidentiality. Interested persons must be 18 years of age or older, as well as a resident of or employee in the Mercer County area with a valid driver’s license, available transportation and the ability to attend trainings and meetings. Volunteers will not have either a criminal history or prior history as a defendant in a domestic violence or sexual assault-related matter.

Volunteers will receive 80+ hours of specialized training on topics including the law, sensitivity to the needs of victims and their children, and how to provide appropriate responses at a very critical time. Trained volunteers must be “on call” (available to respond to call-outs at police departments or hospitals) two to four shifts per month.

Womanspace in partnership with the Police Departments throughout Mercer County is currently accepting applications for volunteers to become members of the Domestic Violence Victim Response Team and the Sexual Assault Support Services Team. To apply for the next training class please visit www.WOMANSPACE.org and download the printer-friendly application. Please submit your application by February 14, 2014; training begins March 5,2014. For more information pleasecall 609-394-0136 and speak with Heidi Mueller or Alison Daks Monday through Friday, 9 am-4 pm or email Heidi at dvvrt@womanspace.org or Alison at sass@womanspace.org.