CARVSS volunteer Advocates provide non-judgmental, emotional, and practical short-term support through referrals to victims following the report of a crime or trauma.
Advocates are required to attend the local detachment, a victim’s home, hospital or other location depending upon safety assessment if requested by the RCMP. Skills and duties include active and supportive listening, assessing immediate needs, and supporting CARVSS is various ways in the community.
Volunteer Requirements:
- Over 18 years of age
- Canadian citizen
- Clean enhanced security clearance and vulnerable sector screening
- Ability to maintain confidentiality.
- Ability to function in stressful and unpredictable situations.
- Access to a reliable vehicle
- Ability to complete 20+ hours online training.
- Willing to commit to being on call for a minimum of 4 shifts a month:
Monday to Friday: 1730-0100, 0100-0800
Saturday/Sunday: 0800-1700, 1700-0100, 0100-0800
- Attend at least 3 training sessions offered to improve subject matter knowledge.
- Respect for people of all religions, ethnicities, and genders
Volunteer Advocate Applicaton Form (Word)
Download Advocate Application, fill out and email to info@carvss.ca
Community Engagement Advocates:
Advocates will assist in representing CARVSS in community events. Advocates are expected to be knowledgeable in CARVSS SOPs/ethics/practices as well as Victim’s issues. This is an opportunity to raise awareness for victim’s services, connect with the community, and recruit new Advocates. Flexible availability required.
Crisis Call Out Advocates:
Crisis Call Out Advocates will provide direct assistance, support, information, and referrals to victims of crime and trauma in the Central Alberta Region through crisis intervention and timely follow-up. This involves a commitment to being on-call to respond in the time of crisis. Evening and weekend availability required.
Court Advocate:
Court advocates provide timely information to clients about court matters and are available to attend court to support clients. They answer questions about the criminal justice process and describe what individuals can expect going forward. Weekday/ Day-time availability required.
