Volunteer Advocate

BECOME A VOLUNTEER ADVOCATE

Support Survivors. Deepen Your Impact.

Are you interested partnering in the empowerment process of victims, survivors and the people that care about them?

At Sexual Assault Response Services of Southern Maine (SARSSM), our Volunteer Advocates provide empathetic support and responsive referrals to individuals impacted by sexual assault, sexual harassment, stalking, and human trafficking.

SARSSM is committed to being an agent of positive change through Advocacy, Intervention, Prevention, and Engagement. We provide free, confidential services to individuals and communities across Cumberland and York Counties.

Qualifications

No prior experience is required—just a genuine desire to help and a willingness to learn.

• Empathetic & Kind
• Honest & Ethical
• Patient
• Responsive & Responsible
• Willing & Coachable
  

Requirements

• Must be 18 years or older
• Complete 40 hours of Advocate Training, including all reading, discussions, and role-plays
• Attendance is required for all sessions (participants may miss only one)
• Agreement with SARSSM’s Statement of Values & Practices
• Must have reliable transportation
• Background check required
• Commit to monthly shifts for at least one year
• Attend bi-monthly in-service meetings to maintain active volunteer status

What You’ll Do

• Provide crisis intervention by phone or in person, as needed
• Submit electronic documentation (e.g., helpline referrals, timesheets)
• Maintain ongoing communication with your Volunteer Supervisor
• Attend mandatory in-service meetings to continue building your skills and stay connected with SARSSM’s work

Why Volunteer With SARSSM?

• Make a real, lasting impact in the lives of survivors
• Build your skills and resume in advocacy, communication, and crisis response
• Benefit from flexible scheduling coordinated in advance
• Join a supportive, mission-driven community

A Commitment to Diversity

SARSSM supports all individuals—regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, income level, abilities, religion, or age. We seek volunteers who are committed to equity and inclusion and who will uphold the dignity and agency of every survivor. Bilingual candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.

What Will I Learn in Advocate Training?

Our training covers the core issues surrounding sexual violence, including:

• The dynamics of sexual assault, harassment, stalking, and trafficking
• Myth-busting and understanding the root causes of violence
• Skills for providing support, crisis intervention, and survivor-centered communication

Upon completion, you’ll receive a Certificate of Completion and will be ready to support survivors directly.

How Often Will I Volunteer?

We ask that each Volunteer Advocate:

• Cover at least four helpline shifts per month
• Commit to one year of service
• Be especially open to night and weekend coverage, which are high-need times

Our helpline scheduler works with volunteers to create flexible, predictable schedules.

Ready to take the next step?
Join SARSSM as a Volunteer Advocate and be a vital part of the healing process for survivors in our community.