Every year since 1984, trained volunteers with the Union County Rape Crisis Center have helped victims of sexual violence through the emotional, medical and legal aftermath of trauma.
A series of new training classes is set to begin March 22nd, and new volunteers are invited to attend. No previous experience in crisis counseling is necessary.
“Over the years our Rape Crisis Center volunteers have been a source of strength, compassion and informed guidance for hundreds of Union County residents who need a helping hand – and a warm heart -- at a critical point in their lives,” said Freeholder Chairman Sergio Granados. “If you are looking for a meaningful way to give back to the community and make a real difference, I encourage you to contact RCC and find out about the next training series.”
The Rape Crisis Center training series beginning on Mar. 22nd will be held twice weekly, on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
All classes will be held at the Union County complex in Westfield, at 300 North Avenue East.
The series will continue through April and conclude on May 10th.
Volunteers must be Union County residents at least 18 years of age. They must hold a valid driver’s license and have their own vehicle. Before training, each volunteer must come to the Rape Crisis Center for an informal interview. Volunteers must attend all training sessions.
To schedule an interview for the March 22 training series, or to find out more about volunteering, call the Rape Crisis Center at 908-233-7273.
Additional information is available at unioncountyrapecrisiscenter.blogspot.com, the Rape Crisis Center blog. It includes first-person accounts of the volunteer experience and details about outreach and educational activities.
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.