LEWISTON — Safe Voices, the domestic violence resource center for Androscoggin, Franklin and Oxford counties, has a few seats open for the next Volunteer Helpline Training, which starts on Monday, June 12.

The Safe Voices helpline is usually the first contact a person makes with Safe Voices when they are looking for support and services around domestic violence. Helpline workers provide support and advocacy to survivors of domestic violence; assist in safety planning; and help to identify additional community resources as needed, with support from Safe Voices staff.

Volunteers work from their homes using their own phones, and generally cover the helpline for approximately 8 to 12 hours a month, based on their availability and the needs of helpline coverage.

Those available to help volunteer during one or more of these times are encouraged to consider signing up for the training. All shifts have backup support from a supervising shift lead.

Interested volunteers must be at least 18, possess a land-line or cell phone with good reception, should be sensitive to domestic violence situations, understand and be able to set clear boundaries, practice good self-care, be dependable, and have good listening and communication skills.

The summer training schedule is from 5 to 8 p.m. June 12, 13, and 14, 9 a.m.to 3 p.m. June 17, and 5 to 8 p.m. June 19, 20, and 21.

All classes are held in the Lewiston/Auburn area (exact location will be given upon enrollment).

Attendance and participation in each training session is mandatory in order to complete the training and become a volunteer. Volunteers are asked to make a minimum six-month commitment to volunteering with Safe Voices upon completing the training.

FMI: 207-795-6744, kwasson@safevoices.org, safevoices.org.

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