Volunteer-Victim Advocate

Job Summary

The Parker Police Department seeks volunteer advocates for the Parker Victim Services Unit. This role requires a compassionate, articulate, and sensitive individual who can maintain good rapport with victims, patrol officers, external agencies, and the public. Advocates provide immediate crisis intervention and support for victims and survivors of crimes such as death, domestic violence, sexual assault, and others. Comprehensive and ongoing training is provided on the dynamics of victimization and victim services. Advocates gain direct experience in supporting those in need and gaining knowledge about law enforcement and the criminal justice system.

Examples Of Essential Duties

• Provide advocacy and immediate crisis intervention for victims of crime.
• Assess immediate needs of victims and provide referrals and follow-up services.
• Act as a liaison between victims and the criminal justice system.
• Ensure victims are aware of their rights under Colorado Law and provide information about the Crime Victim's Compensation Act.
• Offer emotional support, connect victims with long-term support services, and inform them of community resources.
• Notify victims of their rights under the Victims' Rights Act.
• Complete necessary reports documenting services rendered and activities performed.
• Represent the agency in a positive and professional manner when contacting victims and citizens.
• Attend monthly support and training meetings.
• Conduct follow-up assistance in providing information on victim compensation benefits and tracking the case progress.
• Participate in a four-hour ride-along with an officer once a year.

Minimum Qualifications

• Must be 21 years of age.
• Must possess a valid driver's license.
• Must be able to work on-call, including nights and weekends.
• Must be able to respond to calls in Parker or Lone Tree within 45 minutes.
• Must complete initial forty (40) hour training.

Necessary Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• Communicate well and respond quickly.
• Offer emotional support and crisis counseling to crime victims and survivors.
• Maintain a non-judgmental attitude towards victims/survivors.
• Have a one-year commitment to the program.
• Successfully complete a full background check including a drug screen and polygraph test.

Additional Information

• Tools and Equipment Used: Personal computer, word processing software, database software, custom dispatch and records programs, telephone, copy machine, portable radio, pager systems, cellular phone, calculator, motor vehicle and other related equipment.
• Physical Demands: Sit, stand, walk, talk, use hands, fingers, handle, feel or operate objects, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. Occasionally reach with hands and arms. Must communicate clearly and effectively; must understand and be understood. On rare occasions, may be required to climb and balance. Must be physically able to operate a variety of computer and office equipment successfully.
• Work Environment and General Information: Climate-controlled office environment. Noise level is usually quiet to moderate. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and the volunteer, and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.