Volunteers Sought For Domestic Violence, Sex Assault Response

Police departments in Mercer County, in conjunction with Womanspace, are accepting applications for volunteers to become part of the Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault response teams.

The team members will work in conjunction with the police to provide support, information, and referral at the time of a domestic violence or sexual assault, according to a description of the position provided by the county.

Womanspace personnel will contact team members, who will then meet with victims at the various police departments throughout Mercer County. The team members will provide information and support in order to help victims make educated decisions that positively impact their individual and family situations.

Last year, Domestic Violence Response Team members helped 550 victims in 539 situations by providing referral counseling and emotional support, according to the county. In that same year, the Sexual Assault Support Services Advocate Team provided help to 68 victims.

Training for new team members begins March 7, and will include extensive specialized training on such topics as the law, sensitivity to the needs of victims and their children, and how to provide swift, safe and appropriate responses at a very critical time for families.

Training will take place at Rider University in Lawrenceville on Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings. Each volunteer must complete 80 hours of training to become an advocate. The training will conclude in May 2018 with a graduation ceremony.

• 18 years of age
• Possess a valid Driver’s license & available transportation
• No Criminal Record History (Applicants must submit information for a background check & interview)
• Attend mandatory training and attend monthly meetings
• Ability to communicate well with others and be sensitive to victims’ feelings
• Bilingual individuals and persons fluent in American Sign Language are encouraged to participate

Any person interested in applying as a volunteer should contact the Domestic Violence Response Team Coordinator Heidi Mueller as soon as possible, at 609-394-0136. Applications must be received by Feb. 2, 2018. For further information contact Heidi Mueller of Womanspace at dvvrt@womanspace.org or Alison Daks sass@womanspace.org 609-394-0136.