The Trenton Police Department in partnership with Womans Space, Inc., are currently accepting applications for volunteers from the Greater Trenton area to become members of the Trenton Police Department’s Domestic Violence Victim Response Team (DVVRT).
The team members will work in conjunction with the police to provide support, information, and referral at the time of a domestic violence crisis. Team members will be contacted by Trenton Police personnel and respond to Trenton Police Headquarters to meet with domestic violence victims. They will provide information and support in order to assist victims in making educated decisions that positively effect individual and family conditions.
In 2010, DVVRT volunteers responded 1,198 times to speak with Domestic Violence Victims, providing referrals, counseling and emotional support. In that same year, 185 persons were supported by the Sexual Assault Support Services Advocate Team (SASS).
Training of the Trenton Police Department’s Domestic Violence Victim Response Team is scheduled to begin in September 6, 2011 at the Lawrence Township Police Department. Team members will receive extensive specialized training on such topics as the law, sensitivity to the needs of victims and their children, and how to provide swift, safe, appropriate responses at a very critical time for families.
The Trenton Police Department will be accepting applications from prospective volunteers who meet the following minimum requirements.
• 18 years of age
• Possess a valid New Jersey Driver’s license & available transportation
• NO Criminal Record History
(applicants must submit information for a background check & interview)
• Attend mandatory training and attend monthly meetings
• Ability to communicate well with others and be sensitive to victims’ feelings
• Bilingual individuals and persons fluent in American Sign Language are encouraged to participate
Any person interested in applying as a volunteer should contact the Trenton Police Department Response Team Coordinator Heidi Mueller as soon as possible, at (609) 394-0136. Applications must be received by August 20, 2011. For further information contact Heidi Mueller of Womanspace at dvvrt@womanspace.org or (609) 394-0136.
