Crisis Volunteers

Qualifications

• Volunteers need to be confidential, non-judgemental, empathetic, resourceful with very good common sense
• Demonstrate strong communication skills, especially in the area of empathetic listening
• Demonstrate ability to cope under duress in crisis situations
• Ability to respect confidentiality
• Ability to meet the time commitment of 4-6, 12 hr on call shifts per month(7am-7pm) or (7pm-7am)
• Ability to work as a member of a team
• Posses a valid driver’s license, auto insurance & have use of a vehicle while on call
• Must be at least 18 yrs of age
• Ability to take direction from Staff & Team Leaders
• Act as an ambassador of the service & as such conduct yourself in a professional, dignified & courteous manner at all times, preserving the integrity of the service.
• Resident of Windsor & Essex County

Expectations of Potential Crisis Volunteers

• Complete a crisis volunteer application and submit to Victim Services of Windsor & Essex County
• Successful completion of interview & screening process
• Attend all of the 40 hour mandatory training sessions

**It is not until after the 40 hour mandatory government training that potential volunteers are taken on as active crisis volunteers.  This gives Victim Services of Windsor & Essex county and yourself the opportunity to see if this type of volunteer work is an appropriate position for both you the candidate & our agency**

Active Crisis Volunteers

• Complete the 40hr government mandatory training
• Commit to at least one year of service
• Be on call by cell phone or pager for a minimum of 4-6 shifts per month of 12 hr on call shifts (7am-7pm) or ( 7pm-7am)
• Sign a confidentiality agreement
• Act as professional, courteous ambassadors of the service

Crisis Volunteers Provide:

• Volunteers provide emotional support & practical assistance on scene or by telephone
• Assist victims to cope with the impact of crime and/or tragic circumstance
• Encourage victims to connect with appropriate service for support
• An opportunity for police officers to leave to attend other calls or enable them to concentrate on investigational procedures knowing that the victims are being assisted

 Volunteer Application 2012