CHAPTER VOLUNTEER POSITION DESCRIPTION

 

Victim Services Volunteer (VSV)

 

·        To stop impaired driving and to support victims of this violent crime.

 

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

·        Provide emotional and practical support to victims; be a voice and resource to / for victims.

·        Raise awareness for and advocate for victims’ rights (better support for victims and stronger penalties for offenders).

·        Distribute appropriate resources and literature to victims and various community groups / partners.

 

COMMITMENT                                                                                                                    

·        Minimum of 1 year / variable (as available / requested).  Willingness to attend VSV level 2 training (workshop format) and successfully complete all the necessary screening requirements.

 

PREREQUISITE

·        Successfully complete VSV training level 1 (on-line) with a “gold” standing.

 

SCREENING

·        Successfully complete the VSV training level 2 interview package: emotional quotient inventory (EQ-I), criminal background check, written statement, letters of reference, volunteer code of conduct, VSV code of ethics and confidentiality agreement, followed by a telephone interview.

 

RESPONSIBILITIES: KEY TASKS / ACTIVITIES       

·        Provide emotional and practical (face-to-face or phone) support to victims (as requested) within 24-48 hours. Notify the National Victim Services Manager and / or Director - Victim Services if you are unable to provide victim support (ASAP).

·        Provide information, relevant resources, court accompaniment and other services as appropriate to victims.  Refer victims to resources within the community.

·        Assist victims with the criminal justice process and civil litigation (as required).

·        Ensure that any support / outreach (phone, written and / or personal support) to victims is in line with MADD Canada’s policies and procedures.

·        Advise victims on how to obtain accident / collision autopsy reports (if requested).

·        Provide guidance to victims when communicating / contacting crown attorneys, investigating officers, probation officers and / or parole officers.

·        Help victims prepare victim impact statements (as requested).

·        Complete a victim information sheet for each victim.  Log each contact and ensure that a copy is forwarded to the National Victim Services Manager on a monthly basis.

·        Inform victims of the national memorial wall and on-line tributes.

·        Promote the annual Victims’ Weekend Conference and Candlelight Vigil.

·        Participate on quarterly VSV conference calls (minimum twice a year).  Participate in victim support groups (based on need / interest / applicability).

·        Assist the Director - Victim Services with any victim projects / initiatives as agreed upon by the board of directors (i.e., local memorials).

·        Maintain regular contact / communication with victims; with the Director - Victim Services and / or the National Victim Services Manager.

·        Be knowledgeable about MADD Canada’s programs and services.

 

BENEFITS TO VOLUNTEERING

·        Support victims during stressful / difficult times.  Gain valuable insights, skills and experiences.  Contribute to your community by supporting victims of impaired driving.

 

PREFERRED SKILLS & QUALITIES

·        Reliable, approachable, personable, flexible, empathetic and patient.  

·        Strong communication skills (oral & written) and strong listening skills.

·        Available during the day and / or evening (as required).

·        Confident and mature (able to prioritize tasks).  Access to a vehicle (an asset).

·        Prior experience working and / or supporting victims (preferred, but not required).

 

ORIENTATION

·        You will receive an Orientation Guide and might be asked to attend an Orientation Session (from / by your local Chapter).

 

TRAINING

·        VSV level 1 (on-line) & VSV level 2 (workshop format).  You will be supported by the National Victim Services Manager, Director - Victim Services and / or the Chapter Administrative Assistant.

 

OPPORTUNITES FOR

·        Retired individuals, seniors and working professionals (with flexible work schedules).

·        Social work students and victims of impaired driving.

 

WE INVITE YOU TO JOIN OUR TEAM OF VOLUNTEERS

·        Contact your local MADD Canada Chapter or visit MADD Canada @ www.madd.ca (feel free to attach a copy of your resume).  Candidates will be contacted for an interview.

 

CONTACT US