YWCA Union County Seeks Volunteers to Support Survivors

According to the Township of Scotch Plains' announcement.

YWCA Union County is looking for volunteers to support survivors of domestic and sexual violence and their families.

The Township of Scotch Plains shared the YWCA's volunteer flyer with residents. The roles are open to people across the county, since the YWCA serves all of Union County.

The flyer describes the YWCA's mission as eliminating racism and empowering women. Its call to volunteers reads, "Join a compassionate community making a real difference for survivors and families in Union County."

Several roles involve crisis response. Domestic Violence Response Team volunteers go to police stations to offer emotional support, crisis intervention and advocacy right after an incident is reported. Confidential Sexual Violence Advocates support sexual assault survivors, including at hospital exams.

BREATHE Team volunteers support survivors of nonfatal strangulation at the hospital. Court Advocacy volunteers offer emotional support and legal options to survivors applying for a restraining order at the Union County Courthouse, and that role requires Spanish.

Hotline operators give resources, referrals and confidential support to callers around the clock, every day of the year. Spanish is preferred for that role.

Not every role is crisis work. STEP mentors, part of the Skills Training and Employment Program, share their workplace experience and skills with someone just starting out. Childcare volunteers watch children while parents receive counseling or other services.

Volunteers must be at least 18 years old and must complete a background check and training. All positions are in person.

Residents with questions can visit YWCA Union County's website or email the YWCA volunteer team.

Find more Scotch Plains events, businesses, and local news on Union County Life.

Source: Township of Scotch Plains

Photo: Tima Miroshnichenko / Pexels