Providing Emotional Assistance to Survivors
The sexual assault response team in Berrien County consists of counselors, law enforcement officials, physicians, sexual assault nurse examiners, Children’s Advocacy Center and social workers who are committed to helping survivors and ending sexual abuse in Southwest Michigan.
As an advocate volunteer, you’ll be assisting specially-trained Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) nurses who provide care to help sexual assault survivors begin the healing process and receive the support they need to live full, satisfying lives. Advocate volunteers are crucial in assisting this team, by providing emotional assistance and support to survivors of abuse and assault during the initial examination process.
Volunteer Expectations:
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Must be able to serve for a minimum of 24 hours per month (six hours per week).
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On-call shifts will be assigned on a rotational basis, and advocate volunteers who are “on-call” must respond if a call occurs during their shift.
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Must successfully complete a comprehensive 4-day training program to ensure they’re properly equipped to work with sexual assault survivors.
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Ongoing education and training will be provided to advocate volunteers to further develop and enhance the appropriate skills and compassionate support services they provide to patients.
***Please note: Caseloads vary and are unpredictable, meaning that sometimes are busier and slower than others. During slower periods, advocate volunteers can assist with other duties that relate to the SANE program. More information regarding additional assistance will be provided at a later date.
How to Become an Advocate Volunteer
Advocate Volunteer for Abuse Survivors Application Packet
The following documents must be completed and submitted for an application to be considered:
- Personal Background Check Authorization Form
- Statement of Commitment
- Volunteer Requirements
- Two Personal Reference Requests
Completed forms should be mailed and/or emailed to:
Lakeland Hospital, Niles
Attn: Alyssa Pliml, RN, SANE-A, SANE-P
31 N. St. Joseph Avenue
Niles, MI 49120
apliml1@lakelandhealth.org