Volunteer Needs From: United Way of Portage County Volunteer Center

SAVS (Sexual Assault Victims Services) is a service program that uses staff and trained volunteers to provide accompaniment, information and support to anyone victimized by sexual violence and their families. Volunteers serve as advocates who respond during non-office hours and on weekends. Volunteers are available to be present with victims during medical examinations, police reporting and during judicial proceedings - all depending on the needs and choices of the victim. The calls are occasional yet a trained volunteer who is able to connect with the victim at a critical time is important in our community. The Family Crisis Center receives the calls and makes the connection with the volunteer advocate who returns the call and offers support. Reminding a victim that they are not alone is possible because ...no SAVS provider is ever alone.

Volunteers must be 18 years old, have access to an insured vehicle, commit to one year of service, successfully complete 20 hours of training and attend monthly in-service/support meetings. The ability to maintain confidentiality is a must. Successful candidates are good listeners and able to be non-judgemental and empathetic in supporting individuals victimized by sexual assault.