General Description:
The main function of the Volunteer Domestic Violence Crisis Counselor is to provide supportive counseling, information and referrals, and advocacy services to victims of domestic violence.
Commitment Required:
- 16 hours each month (Four 4-hour shifts; with shifts scheduled Monday through Friday from 8am to 5pm) throughout a six month period.
- Must have your own computer with reliable internet connection.
- It is helpful if volunteers can be flexible and occasionally adjust their shift hours.
- Attend meetings and training sessions as scheduled.
Duties and responsibilities:
- Respond to web chat line; provide trauma-informed, personal, confidential peer counseling to domestic violence victim/survivors and significant others.
- Assess client needs for additional services and make appropriate referrals.
- Must possess ability to understand and appreciate diversity, and be sensitive to different experiences and lifestyles.
- Complete and maintain statistical and recording keeping requirements.
- Work cooperatively with other staff/volunteers.
- Review cases with supervisor and other staff as needed or requested.
- Maintain good communication with supervisor and volunteer coordinator.
- Perform all tasks in a safe manner to avoid injury to self and others.
- Duties or volunteer shifts may vary as needs arise and/or change.
Qualifications:
- Must be at least 21 years of age.
- Must possess or immediately complete CalOES State approved 40-hour Domestic Violence Crisis Counselor training.
- Bi-lingual is helpful.
Screening Requirements and Process:
- Must interview with Volunteer Coordinator, Program Manager and/or Program Staff.
- Must receive clearance from the Department of Justice Criminal Record Offender Information database.
Benefits of Training:
All volunteers will receive effective training and an excellent opportunity to gain knowledge in the social services field, all while helping their community.
