FARMINGTON – The Sexual Assault Victims Emergency Services’ 24-hour sexual assault crisis and support hotline for Franklin County is staffed by a team of volunteer advocates.

Training for the hotline, which offers peer support, is offered in the fall and spring. No previous experience is required. SAVES provides all the training necessary for someone to become a helpful support person to those who have been affected by violence. SAVES advocates come from all walks of life and have various educational backgrounds.

One graduate said, “The advocate training has, of course, prepared me for the hotline, but has also helped me in every aspect of my life. These aren’t only lessons for advocating, but these are life lessons.”

Training will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. Mondays from Jan. 29 to May 7 at the SAVES office. Saturday classes will be held on March 17 and April 7 to participate in a counseling skills lab and to practice role playing.

Persons must be 18 years or over to apply. The course is available free to those who will volunteer with SAVES. UMF credit may be available.

For more information and/or an application, call, write or e-mail Pamela Adams, director of client services, SAVES Inc., PO Box 349, Farmington, ME, 04938; 778-9522; or Pamelaa@savesrapecrisis.org.

SAVES is a member of the United Way of the Tri-Valley Area and serves all of Franklin County. The 24-hour crisis and support line number is 1-800-871-7741. Local cell phone users should call 778-0110 to access the hotline.

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