Volunteer
About Our Volunteer Program
At ESVNL, our flagship service is a 24-hour crisis and support line providing essential services to those impacted by sexual violence across Newfoundland & Labrador. Our volunteer team is a lifeline for individuals in need, offering empathy, support, and trauma-informed responses. We are committed to advocating for survivors and ensuring they receive the care and attention they deserve.
Our training program is designed to support our volunteers every step of the way as they prepare to make a difference. Join our team of passionate and dedicated volunteers
Who Can Apply?
Anyone who….
- has a passion for supporting others
- is non-judgmental
- is naturally empathetic
- believes in equality for all genders
- is 19 years of age before the beginning of the training cycle
- has capacity to field difficult calls and engage in self care
Why Volunteer with Us?
Volunteering with ESVNL offers numerous personal and professional benefits:
- Purpose: Support survivors of sexual violence across Newfoundland and Labrador.
- Skills Gained: Crisis intervention, advocacy, and an in-depth knowledge of sexual violence issues.
- Impact: Make a meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable individuals.
- Crisis Intervention: Gain experience in managing crisis situations with empathy and professionalism.
- Advocacy Skills: Learn how to advocate effectively for survivors and understand the broader context of sexual violence issues.
- Not-for-Profit Insight: Get hands-on experience working within a not-for-profit organization.
- Knowledge Expansion: Increase your understanding of various issues related to sexual violence.
- Manageable Commitment: Average of two calls per 24-hour cycle with flexible shift options. Volunteers only need to cover 4 to 6 four hour shifts per month.
- Work from Home: You can take calls from the comfort of your own home using our call platform, which ensures your personal information remains secure.
When is Training?
We deliver 3 training cycles per year. Fall, Winter and Spring! The exact dates vary.
For the up coming training schedule and current deadline for applications reach out to our volunteer coordinator at sva@endsexualviolence.com.
Benefits of Our Training
Volunteers are given opportunities to practice existing skills while adding new skills and information to their experience. All training is free to those accepted into the program.
- Lifelong Skills: The skills and knowledge you gain from our training are invaluable and transferable to any service provider position, enhancing your personal and professional development
- In-Depth Preparation: Given the sensitive nature of our work, our training program is designed to thoroughly prepare you to handle a wide range of situations involving crisis intervention and ongoing support.
- Confidence in Crisis Situations: You’ll be prepared to handle any type of call with confidence, knowing that you have the resources and training to support individuals in crisis.
- Community Impact: Your training prepares you to make a significant impact on the lives of survivors, helping them navigate their healing journey.
Training Components
Training is virtual over zoom
- SANE (Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners) Program Tour: Take a physical tour of the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE) Program at St. Clare’s Hospital to understand the medical and forensic aspects of sexual assault support.
- In-Person ASIST Training: Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) is conducted in person, as required by licensing agencies, to equip you with essential skills for suicide intervention.
- Cultural Diversity from First Light: Receive training in cultural diversity and sensitivity from First Light, enhancing your ability to support individuals from diverse backgrounds with respect and understanding.
How do I apply?
ESVNL Volunteer Application Package, Fall 2024.docx
- Email sva@endsexualviolence.com for an application package
- Submit completed application
- Submit two references. One personal and one professional (included in the application package)
- Accept an appointment for an initial interview with the volunteer coordinator
What Are My Commitments Once Accepted into the Volunteer Program?
- Mandatory training sessions. Trainees must attend 100% of the training. Missed sessions may result in dismissal.
Commit to a minimum of one-year volunteering with the End Sexual Violence NL
Submit signed documentation as per End Sexual Violence NL policies (Confidentiality Agreement, Certificate of Conduct, Volunteer Contact Information, etc.)
To sign and strictly adhere to our Confidentiality Agreement.
To sign a volunteer contract.
- At no cost to you, submit a criminal record screening and vulnerable sector check.
- To attend at least 3 monthly meetings per year.