The Boulder Police Department is currently seeking individuals with a passion for service to join their ranks as volunteer victim advocates. The role these advocates play is crucial, they are the ones who provide immediate support to individuals facing some of the most distressing moments of their lives, including the aftermath of crimes, accidents, and natural disasters.
According to Boulder Police Department, the department is looking to fill several positions. These volunteers are the bastions of compassion and support, tasked with delivering information, emotional support, and connections to further local resources for those in crisis. The department emphasizes the importance of these advocates, quoting feedback that underscores the pivotal role such services play during a person's most challenging times.
The job isn't one to be taken lightly. Volunteers must meet specific criteria, including being at least 21 years old, having the ability to work one shift per month, and committing to a one-year term in the program. They're also required to complete a 40-hour training session, which equips them with skills in crisis intervention, recognizes community resources, hones active listening abilities, and understanding emotional responses to grief and trauma.
Those who step up to the calling will volunteer their time across three possible on-call shifts: a day shift from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. during weekdays, a night shift covering 6 p.m. to 6 a.m., and a weekend shift that spans 6 p.m. on Fridays to 6 a.m. on Mondays. For those who are up for the challenge, training is scheduled to start on April 15th and will span until May 3rd, taking place on Tuesday and Thursday evenings and Saturdays, as detailed by the Boulder Police Department.
Advocates who have served in these roles often speak of the profound sense of connection and purpose garnered from assisting others through their most vulnerable times. It's a unique opportunity to make a tangible difference within the community, directly impacting individuals' lives who are navigating through their darkest hours.
