Volunteer Advocate

Save to Favorites

A Volunteer Advocate provides critical services to adult survivors of sexual violence, loved ones, community service provides, and any other individuals that are impacted by sexual violence. You will be expected to provide these services through the 24/7 hotline. On the hotline you will receive calls and utilize your training to triage the callers needs to the best of your ability. You will also be expected to accompany survivors during a Sexual Assault Forensic Exam to provide emotional support and information throughout that process. During a shift you could receive a hotline or a hospital call, joining our program means that you are willing to fulfill both needs. Hotline (On-Call) shifts are 6 hours long. Volunteers determine their own schedule but must sign up for 3 to 4 shifts per month.

REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

• Monthly Hotline Coverage Commitment: Sign up for 18-24 hours (3-4 shifts per month) of coverage per month for a 12 month commitment upon completion of training
• Duties Required: Attend 25 hours of Advocate Training provided by Tri-County S.P.E.A.K.S. and other community partners
• Participate in 8 hours of yearly continuing education. Training opportunities occurs 2x a month
• Report hotline activity to VC within 24 hours of service
• Physical Activity Required: Must be able to drive and provide their own transportation in order to respond quickly (within 45 minutes) to calls for victim accompaniment at hospitals.
• Location: Volunteers may cover their shifts from any location as long as they are reachable by phone and are able to respond to MUSC’s Emergency Department within 30 minutes.

• Must be 18 years or older
• Must undergo a SLED background check
• Must attend new volunteer training
• Ability to work effectively with victims, police, and medical personnel
• Reliability and ability to maintain confidentiality
• Flexibility and ability to apply basic concepts and information to a wide variety of unexpected situations
• Ability to work within the boundaries of TCS’s regulations and procedures
• Proficient use of computers and technology
• Friendly, enthusiastic, and positive attitude
• Reliable transportation