Become A Union County Rape Crisis Center Volunteer
Union County residents who are seeking ways to give back to the community can apply to volunteer with the Union County Rape Crisis Center.
Officials say that volunteers at the Rape Crisis Center provide guidance and support for victims of sexual violence.
The Rape Crisis Center is a program of the Union County Department of Human Services, and all volunteers are trained, mentored and supported by professional Union County staff.
“Our Rape Crisis Center volunteers are a powerful force for good in the Union County community,” said Freeholder Chairman Sergio Granados. “In many cases, a victim of sexual violence cannot turn to family or friends for support. Our volunteers are non-judgmental. They offer victims the vital elements of human empathy and understanding while providing accurate guidance for managing the legal and medical aftermath of sexual violence.”
Organizers say no previous experience in counseling is required. Once trained, Rape Crisis Center volunteers answer calls to the Rape Crisis Center hotline as certified Confidential Sexual Violence Advocates.
They also provide medical or legal guidance in person by accompanying victims at hospitals, police departments, courtrooms and other locations related to the aftermath of sexual violence.
The Rape Crisis Center is currently organizing the next round of training sessions. All sessions will take place during daytime hours at Rape Crisis Center offices, located in the Colleen Fraser Building at the Union County complex, 300 North Avenue East in Westfield.
Union County residents who may be interested in daytime training sessions are invited to call the Rape Crisis Center hotline at 908-233-7273.
Volunteers must be Union County residents at least 18 years of age, with a valid driver’s license and their own vehicle.
For more information about the volunteer experience at Rape Crisis Center call 908-233-7273 or visit the Rape Crisis Center blog, unioncountyrapecrisiscenter.blogspot.com.
The Rape Crisis Center is part of the Union County Department of Human Services, Division of Planning and has been serving Union County residents since 1984.