Organization seeking volunteers to assist victims of crime and tragedy

Victim Services of Stormont, Dundas, Glengarry and Akwesasne is seeking volunteer responders to provide immediate, on-site service to individuals of crimes or tragic circumstances.

PHOTO CREDIT - VSSDGA

Cornwall - Feb. 21, 2011 - A local organization is seeking volunteers who will provide support to people who have been affected by a crime or a tragedy.

Victim Services of Stormont, Dundas, Glengarry and Akwesasne is seeking volunteer responders to work as part of a crisis team. The volunteer crisis responders provide immediate, on-site service to individuals of crimes or tragic circumstances with the intent of lessening the impact of victimization. This could include such things as supportive listening, helping a person prioritize needs, providing accompaniment to an emergency shelter or hospital, making phone calls or helping secure the premises. Volunteer responders also ensure information about long-term services is made available to victims.

An upcoming training session will run from March 21 to May 4, with sessions taking place on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Volunteers receive a total of 42 hours of ministry-mandated training.

Those interested in volunteering must be at least 19 years of age with a valid driver's licence and access to an insured vehicle. Candidates must also be willing to undergo a criminal records check.

Victim Services of SDG & A is a non-profit volunteer based organization dedicated to assisting police and other emergency service providers to meet the immediate short-term needs of victims of crime and tragic circumstance by providing emotional support, practical assistance and information and referrals.

Those interested in volunteering can contact Victim Services at 613-938-8900 or 1-866-264-8900.