What would my job entail?

Crisis calls go into an answering service, which pages the advocate on call  The advocate returns the call to the Answering Service within 10 minutes to get the name and number of the caller.

• Sometimes it's a person who simply needs to talk on the phone about a painful memory or a nightmare.

• Sometimes it's a person who has just been raped and needs immediate attention.

• Sometimes it's a call from the ER to say you're needed to be with a victim who has just arrived at the hospital.

• Sometimes you will accompany a victim to the police station for an interview or to court.

In each of these situations you will be expected to:

• Remain calm and professional in a hectic situation.

• Listen compassionately, without judging, while someone talks.

• Advocate for the victim to medical and law enforcement personnel.

• Elicit thoughts, feelings and decisions from the victim, putting your own preferences aside.

To be eligible to become a rape crisis advocate you must:

• Be at least 18 years of age

• Hold a valid driver's license

• Have reliable transportation

• Complete a 48-hour training

• Successfully clear a background check with both DHHS and the State Police

• Be able to take a minimum of 6 shifts a month, including 1 weekend shift.

  • Shifts are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 a.m. (A small stipend is paid)

• Have a compassionate, non-judgmental attitude. We Always believe the victim.

• Possess the ability to interact professionally with a wide diversity of populations and community members.

How will I know what to do?

RCAP offers a 48-hour training, presented by the staff and other community professionals.  Click here for training content and to access the application.  Applications are due in the office no later than October 10th.  Once your application is received, you will be contacted for an interview.

Statistics 

·         In 2006-2007 our agency had a total of 348 contacts with people affected by sexual assault.

·         With one month left to go in 2007-2008, our agency has already had more than 500 contacts with more than 250 clients.

·         In April 2008, there were 200 phone calls to the crisis line.

·         Eight perpetrators of sexual assault were arrested and our advocates will be there to help the survivors through the legal process