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 on-site at our emergency domestic violence shelter.

Commitment Required: 
•    16 hours each month (includes nights/weekends/holidays) throughout a one-year period; 4-hour shifts at a time 
•    It is helpful if volunteers can be flexible and occasionally adjust their shift hours to meet the needs of the clients
•    Attend meetings and training sessions as scheduled. 

Volunteer duties and responsibilities:
•    Respond to general information and crisis telephone calls.
•    Provide domestic violence crisis intervention services on-site; and at local hospitals, law enforcement agencies, and other sites as directed.
•    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.
•    Complete forms required for client files or service provision records.
•    Maintain regular communication with Family Services’ Domestic Violence staff with reference to program needs and files.
•    Must possess ability to understand and appreciate diversity, and to be sensitive to different experiences and lifestyles.
•    Perform all tasks in a safe manner to avoid injury to self and others.
    
Duties may vary as needs arise and/or change.

Qualifications: 
•    Must be at least 21 years of age.
•    Ability to respond to emergency calls and incidents; sensitivity to domestic violence victims.
•    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.
•    Provide proof of a valid CA Driver’s License; proof of auto insurance; DMV Record 

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.