Union County Seeks Volunteer Advocates For Victims Of Sexual Violence

Press release: 

The Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders is pleased to announce that a free summertime training course is available for persons interested in becoming confidential volunteer advocates for victims of sexual violence.

The training course qualifies volunteers to answer calls and offer in-person support through the Rape Crisis Center, a long-running program of the Union County Department of Human Services. RCC has provided reliable, confidential guidance to victims of sexual violence since 1984.

“The Freeholder Board is extremely proud of our volunteer advocates, who help restore a sense of community and self-worth to our fellow Union County residents facing a life crisis,” said Freeholder Chairman Christopher Hudak. “If you are looking for a worthwhile volunteer activity, I urge you to contact the Rape Crisis Center and ask about the upcoming training program.”

The next training course will begin on Tuesday evening, July 22, and continue for 16 sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 6:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., until September 16.

The course provides volunteers with training in crisis counseling and medical/legal accompaniment in a supportive, empathetic environment.

The training will take place at RCC offices in Westfield at the Colleen Fraser county services building, 300 North Avenue East.

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. Prior to training, each volunteer will come to the RCC offices for an informal interview.

To find out more about volunteering and to schedule an interview, call RCC at 908-233-7273.  For more information about RCC, including personal stories by volunteers, visit the RCC blog at unioncountyrapecrisiscenter.blogspot.com.