Volunteer Training will be held for anyone interested in helping to provide services and support to survivors of domestic and sexual violence. Sessions will take place at the Family Crisis Center’s administrative office on the following dates and times:
• Thursday, Jan. 6 - 5:30- 9:30 p.m.
• Saturday, Jan. 8 - 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Monday, Jan. 10 - 5:30- 9:30 p.m.
• Saturday, Jan. 15 - 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Classroom training consists of 24 hours of information about domestic and sexual violence, services offered, community partners involved and specialized skills needed to provide services. "Giving people enough information to feel confident in what they are doing is so important." said Jennifer McReynolds, volunteer coordinator for the Family Crisis Center. "It is also our responsibility to provide training that puts the needs of survivors first." Additionally, at least 16 hour of on-the-job training is required so that volunteers can learn the many aspects of the services provided.
Volunteers for the Family Crisis Center are able to help with many of the services offered to survivors. "Volunteers are an integral part of how we do what we do." explained Laura Patzner, executive director. "We provide 24-hour services in 10 counties with 10 full-time and two part-time staff. Without volunteers, services would have to be cut; survivor’s needs could not be met."
For additional information on volunteering, contact McReynolds at 620-793-9941 or stop by the administrative office located at 2008 11th Street in Great Bend to pick up a volunteer application.
The Family Crisis Center Inc. is a private non-profit agency whose mission is to provide advocacy and services to survivors of domestic and sexual violence while encouraging social change through education. Comprehensive services are available for survivors 24-hours a day. For information or to access services call the 24-hour crisis line at 620-792-1885 or toll free at 866-792-1885. For more information about the Family Crisis Center and how you can help call the administrative office at 620-793-9941.