JANUARY 6, 2025 – Younity invites compassionate and dedicated individuals to join our Response Teams of Mercer County as Volunteer Advocates. This is more than just a volunteer role—it’s an opportunity to be a beacon of hope for individuals in crisis. Together, we are stronger than abuse. By offering your time and care, you can help create a safer, more supportive community. As an advocate, you will be a vital part of providing immediate assistance to victim-survivors of domestic and sexual violence, ensuring their safety and well-being during the moments when they need it most.
Why Volunteer with Younity?
Volunteering with Younity is a chance to make a meaningful difference in our community. As part of our Response Teams, you’ll receive professional training to provide compassionate, informed support to individuals in crisis. Working closely with law enforcement and other community partners, you’ll play an essential role in a coordinated effort to bring safety, hope, and healing to those affected by domestic and sexual violence.
What Does the Role Involve?
As a Response Team Volunteer Advocate, you will:
- Provide Immediate Support: Offer emotional care and critical information to victim-survivors of domestic and sexual violence.
- Collaborate with Law Enforcement: Work alongside police officers to ensure individuals in crisis receive the resources they need.
- Offer Resource Guidance: Help victim-survivors understand their options and connect them with Younity’s comprehensive services, such as emergency shelter, counseling, and legal advocacy.
- Be Present During Critical Moments: Respond to calls and provide vital support during some of the most challenging times in someone’s life.
- Receive Professional Training: Complete 64 hours of free training provided by Younity’s experts and other leaders in the field of domestic violence and sexual assault intervention.
The Critical Moment in a Victim’s Journey
Your role as an advocate is critical in helping victim-survivors take the first step toward safety and recovery. Statistics show that, on average, a victim attempts to leave an abusive relationship seven to eight times before succeeding. Your compassion, training, and presence can be the turning point that empowers someone to break free from abuse and begin their journey to healing.
Training and Support
At Younity, we understand that this role requires preparation and ongoing support. Our extensive training program equips you with the tools and knowledge to handle complex situations with confidence and empathy. You’ll learn about domestic and sexual violence, crisis intervention, and Younity’s range of services. Additionally, you’ll receive continued guidance and resources to support you throughout your volunteer journey.
How to Apply
If you are compassionate, empathetic, and committed to creating a stronger, safer community, we encourage you to apply to join Younity’s Response Teams of Mercer County.
- Application Deadline: February 25, 2025
- Training Dates and Location: March 18 – May 3, 2025 Tuesdays & Thursdays (6-8:30pm) via Zoom & Saturdays (9am-1pm) at various Police Stations
If you have questions or want more information about this opportunity, please email Varonda Kendrick at responseteamstraining@younitynj.org.
To apply, complete and submit this application.
