Battered Women’s Support Services (BWSS) is inviting self-identifying women who are advocates of change, champions of social justice, and/or students shaping tomorrow’s world to apply for the Violence Prevention and Intervention Volunteer Training Program, starting on September 22, during Gender Equality Week.
The 12-week training, followed by a practicum involving crisis line support and group facilitation, equips volunteers with essential skills to support victims of intimate partner, domestic, and sexualized violence. The program positions trainees as the vital first point of contact, giving them an opportunity for personal growth, skill development, and the chance to create a tangible impact within our community.
Startling statistics reveal that one woman or girl is killed every other day, on average somewhere in Canada. From 2019 to 2022, there was a 27% increase in killings of women and girls involving a male accused.
Even though the majority of calls to the crisis line originate from the Lower Mainland, BWSS volunteers also provide support to international callers. Between March 1, 2020, and March 31, 2022, we responded to an astounding 94,736 requests for service.
The immersive training program, grounded in current research and best practices, covers crisis intervention, peer counseling, safety assessment, advocacy, and more. Participants gain expertise in trauma-informed crisis intervention, safety planning, and assisting victims of gender-based violence. Their renowned education model has benefited over 10,000 volunteers.
Angela Marie MacDougall, Executive Director of BWSS, says, “Our volunteers are the crucial first point of contact for thousands of callers, providing vital support to help victims become survivors everyday. Volunteering with BWSS is a meaningful way to give back to the community while actively contributing to the fight against gender-based violence.”
Are you ready to make a powerful difference in the fight for gender equality and the battle against domestic, sexual, and intimate partner violence? Apply now for the Violence Prevention and Intervention Volunteer Training Program.
Find more on: https://www.bwss.org/
