The Union County Board of County Commissioners is calling for residents to volunteer with the Union County Rape Crisis Center and provide guidance and support to victims of sexual violence.
Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon emphasized the importance of the volunteers' role, stating, “Our dedicated volunteers provide crucial guidance and empathy to those in need, offering vital support during a difficult time. Together, we can make a profound difference in the lives of survivors and foster a community that stands against sexual violence.”
The spring training for volunteers will take place from April 1 to May 15, on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 to 9 p.m. While no prior counseling experience is necessary, interested individuals must be Union County residents, at least 18 years old, have a personal mode of transportation and a valid driver’s license, undergo a personal interview, and participate in a 40+ hour state-mandated training program.
Once trained, volunteers will answer calls to the Rape Crisis Center hotline as certified Confidential Sexual Violence Advocates. They will also provide in-person medical or legal guidance by accompanying victims at hospitals, police departments, courtrooms, and other locations related to the aftermath of sexual violence.
The Union County Rape Crisis Center, a program of the Union County Department of Human Services, Division of Individual & Family Support Services, has been serving county residents since 1984. All volunteers are trained, mentored, and supported by professional Union County staff. Training sessions are held at the Rape Crisis Center offices in the Colleen Fraser Building at the Union County complex, 300 North Ave. E. in Westfield.
Interested individuals should contact the Union County Rape Crisis Center at 908-233-7273 or via email at rcc@ucnj.org by March 21 for more information about the volunteer experience.
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Generative AI was used to produce an initial draft of this story, which was reviewed and edited by NJ Advance Media staff.