Opportunities From: Volunteer DBQ

Waypoint Services is the comprehensive domestic violence victim service provider for Benton, Black Hawk, Buchanan, Delaware, Dubuque, Jones, and Linn Counties and is looking for volunteers to assist individuals experiencing controlling, abusive partners in the Dubuque area.

Volunteer Victim Advocates have the opportunity to assist with answering the 24/7 Resource & Support phone line, supporting victims in criminal and civil court proceedings, and providing emergency advocacy at area hospitals for victims of domestic violence. Additional support options are available, depending on interest and skill level, including support partner, transportation, and hosting support groups. Ideal candidates are non-judgmental, compassionate, encouraging, and empowering.

Volunteers are required to complete 32 hours training provided free-of-charge by Waypoint. 20 hours of training is completed online and 12 hours will be completed in-person. Attendance at all sessions is required prior to volunteering. Please contact Brittany(bappleton@waypointservices.org; 319-365-1458, ext. 6118) for more information about this volunteer opportunity. Quarterly training dates offered. 

 Please visit our website for a volunteer application and additional opportunities.

INTERNSHIP SUMMARY:
Put your energy and passion to use and become part of a local non-profit organization! Do you love to
make a difference in the community you live in? Do you want to help an agency whose mission is to move
people forward? Are you compassionate, understanding, and passionate? Then this internship is perfect
for you!

Under the direction of the Director of Domestic Violence Victim Services Program, the Domestic Violence
Victim Services Intern is responsible for assisting advocates with various tasks supporting individuals who
have experienced domestic violence.     

TIME COMMITMENT:                                                                                                                          Part-time with flexible hours between 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Semester commitments are preferred, but can be adjusted to fit your schedule. Some evening hours may be available, but are not required.

PRINICIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Administrative Help with filing, data entry, and other record keeping tasks Direct client contact Provide emotional support, information, resources, and further assistance victims in navigating the legal and medical system Provide emotional support and resources/referrals during business hours over the phone Meet with clients one-on-one or in group settings

REQUIRED SKILLS:

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills Positive attitude Commitment to helping those in need Ability to work independently and collaborate with others Ability to multi-task Ability to be non-judgmental, encouraging, and empowering

A 32-hour training (20 hours online and 26 hours in-person, provided free-of-charge by Waypoint) must
be completed prior to starting the internship. Interested individuals must also be able to pass a criminal
background check.

WHAT YOU WILL GAIN:

Direct experience working with individuals in crisis Knowledge of medical and legal advocacy and how they impact victim service providers and clients Knowledge of various community resources and how they work to support individuals in crisis Opportunities to further develop other interpersonal skills while working closely with clients and staff