Volunteer Opportunities

Position Summary

After successful completion of the Alberta Solicitor General 40 hour training and swearing of an oath of confidentiality, potential volunteers may be qualified as an advocate with Fort McMurray Victim Services. Once qualified, the advocate, always working as part of a crisis team, will respond immediately to requests from the RCMP to provide short term emotional support and practical assistance to victims of crime or tragic circumstances. The advocate will ensure that appropriate options and/or referrals are provided to the victim.

Time Commitment: In order to effectively serve the needs of our communities, our advocates make a one year commitment during which they are on call for four 12 hour shifts per month. Shift start times are 7:00 am or 7:00 pm.

Responsibilities:

• Respond immediately to requests for service from the RCMP by attending on scene or at an alternate safe location. On occasion, crisis intervention may be provided by telephone.
• Provide emotional support which empowers the victim, including answering questions and providing information that will help lessen the impact of the crisis for the victim.
• Identify longer term needs by responding to the victim’s concerns and supply the victim with appropriate options and referrals to services in the community that will assist them in accessing resources for further assistance.
• Prepare necessary reports, liaise with RCMP and other agencies

Other duties:

• Participating in monthly training meetings and any other advocate training events as scheduled
• Report to the Executive Director if a victim service call or assignment is particularly stressful for attending advocate(s). Debriefing is available to assist.

Qualifications:

• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality of all issues surrounding calls for service to victims, information shared in advocate training and information about the organization.
• Mature and responsible
• Pass a criminal record check and security clearance
• Valid Drivers' Licence
• Ability to deal effectively with crisis situations Listening skills
• Good written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to commit one year service

If you would like to complete a volunteer application, download the form below and:

• fax to (780) 788-4251; or
• drop off to 105 Paquette Drive in Timberlea; or
• mail to Box 5712, Fort McMurray, AB T9H 4V9

 Victim Services Volunteer Application Form