SUBMITTED NEWS RELEASE
The Reno Police Department is recruiting area residents to be trained as Volunteer Victim Advocates for the Victims Services Unit.
Applications for the Fall 2011 session are available at the Reno Police Department at 455 East Second Street or by e-mailing [email protected] or online at Reno.Gov under Police and the Victim Services tab. Applications must be returned to the Victims Services Unit by June 10, 2011. Applicants must be U.S. citizens, be at least 18 years of age and pass a police background investigation.
Crime victim advocates provide crisis intervention, coordinate emergency and other support services to victims of intimate partner violence which includes domestic violence, stalking, protection order violations, and others. The Victim Services Unit is hoping to have 12-15 volunteers in this training program. Volunteers will receive training that will provide:
- Methods for working with people in crisis situations
- Identification and delivery of community resources available to victims of crime
- Skills and knowledge to develop customized safety plans with victims
- Knowledge of Reno Police Department operations and the criminal justice system, as well as other topics
The initial training program is 40 hours with sessions that will be scheduled on week nights and weekends.
RPD’s Victim Services Unit Volunteer Coordinator Eunice Peterson says, “Volunteer victim advocates touch the lives of those in crisis providing compassion and support to victims and their children.” Peterson says participants will “learn more about the unique career of victim advocacy and be a part of a team which helps people in need.”
For More Information: Eunice Peterson (775) 657-4519
