Interested in Volunteering With Us?

Thanks for showing an interest in volunteering with SAC NW GA! SAC depends on our dedicated volunteers to help us provide direct services to survivors of sexual violence in our community. In many cases our hotline workers are a victim's first contact with the center. It may also be the first time a victim has ever spoken of their assault. This is why it is so important that we have committed people to work with us. We hope the information below will help you get to know the role of the SAC volunteer a little better.

What does a volunteer with SAC do?

Volunteers help staff the 24-hour crisis hotline by signing up to be on-call. Each volunteer signs up for on-call shifts throughout the month, depending on what their schedule will allow. If someone calls the hotline, a volunteer will be responding to the caller directly. Calls are made by survivors of sexual assault, their friends or family members, area professionals, law enforcement, social workers and many others. Volunteers provide non-judgmental support, information, crisis intervention, and a listening ear to survivors of sexual violence. Volunteers also help support our 24-hour hospital accompaniment services by accompanying survivors to the hospital or to SAC.

READ THE VOLUNTEERING WITH SAC FAQ SHEET!

What is hospital accompaniment?

If a victim decides to report the crime to police, a forensic medical exam may be performed. This exam can be done at the hospital or at the SAC clinic. Volunteers, also known as advocates, accompany the victim at either location. Advocates help the victim, or family and friends understand the medical process and can act as a liaison between the victim, hospital staff, and law enforcement.

Are there other ways to volunteer besides direct service?

Absolutely! Volunteers can work behind the scenes by helping out at the office or at our fundraising events. We also present programs to the community and if you don't mind a little public speaking, you are welcome to help us raise awareness about sexual violence.

What are the requirements?

Volunteers must complete 40 hours of our training program, fill out an application, interview with a staff member, and have a criminal background check. No experience is needed; everything you need to know to be a great volunteer is covered in training. Prior to the training an orientation is conducted with prospective volunteers. This gives the volunteer a chance to see if volunteering with us is a good fit for them. Volunteers for direct service must be 18 years of age. Volunteer training is provided via an on-line program, so you can complete the training program in your own time and on your own schedule.

Do you have internships available?

Yes. Volunteers who are students can use this opportunity to complete their college credits in a specific class or just for the added experience in their chosen field. We are not able to offer paid internships.

How do I sign up?

You can call the SAC at (706) 292-9024 or email us at cgettis@sacnwga.org to let us know you are interested in becoming a volunteer.  Or, complete the application form available HERE.

 P.O. Box 928   Rome, Georgia  30162      Ph: (706) 292-9024    Fax:  (706) 292-0114       CRISIS HOTLINE:  (866) 655-8625         Ft. Oglethorpe Expansion Ctr:     Ph: (706) 861-0929     Fax: (706) 866-0782    

Copyright © 2009 sacnwga.org. All rights reserved.