LEWISTON – The Sexual Assault Crisis Center is seeking interested women and men who would like to make a difference in the lives of victims of sexual violence. Volunteers are needed to listen and provide support, information and referrals to hotline callers. SACC will offer a training for hotline advocates soon.

The training will provide insight and information in the areas of sexual harassment, sexual abuse, sexual assault and the challenges faced by survivors and their supporters.

Volunteers will be taught the options and resources available for survivors of all ages in the community and learn crisis intervention and advocacy skills through training and role-play scenarios, with emphasis placed on the importance of self-care.

SACC advocates carry a pager during their hotline shifts, allowing them to be on call from their homes. During a hotline shift, a volunteer may provide telephone support, support and accompaniment through medical exams, advocacy with law enforcement personnel and court accompaniment.

Volunteer advocates must be over age 18, empathetic and reliable. No experience is necessary. A new training session is scheduled to begin this month. To learn more about becoming an advocate, contact Sarah at the SACC office at 784-5272, ext. 104.