180 seeks volunteers for CSVA training

For over 30 years, 180 Turning Lives Around (180), a private nonprofit organization, has been dedicated to ending domestic violence and sexual violence, and 180 will be conducting a training course this fall for confidential sexual violence advocate (CSVA) volunteers. Applications are currently being accepted, and interviews will begin shortly.

CSVAs with 180’s sexual violence program are civilian members of the community who work in conjunction with law enforcement and the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office’s sexual assault nurse examiners, provide emotional support and assistance to victims of sexual violence and their significant others during hospital medical examinations, police procedures, and through the criminal justice system. The volunteer advocates also provide telephone support and referral services in the areas of sexual violence awareness, crisis intervention, the medical and emotional needs of the sexual assault survivor, and the criminal justice system in relation to sexual assault. Prior knowledge of sexual violence is not required. Successful applicants will be invited to participate in the CSVA 50-hour mandatory training course being held Sept. 13 through Oct. 13, Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday evenings, in the courtroom at Hazlet Township Police Headquarters, 255 Middle Road.

Basic requirements for volunteers to apply for this victim advocacy program include that applicants must be 18 years of age or older, have access to transportation, possess a valid driver’s license, be willing to serve on an on-call shift basis, participate in an interview process, submit to background investigations and fingerprinting, and successfully complete mandatory training. 180 Turning Lives Around is committed to a culturally diverse team to better serve the community. Bilingual capability is helpful. To obtain an application or for additional information, contact Sue Levine, coordinator, Victim Support Program, at 732-264-4360, ext. 4271, or susanl@180nj.org.

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence or sexual violence, call the 180 Turning Lives Around confidential hotline at 732-264-4111, which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

For more information, visit www.180nj.org. In an emergency, dial 911.