Victim Services of Waterloo Region is a non-profit organization that is available 24/7, 365 days a year.  We provide short-term emotional and practical support along with community referrals to victims of crime and tragic circumstances within the Region of Waterloo.  Our response is caring, skilled and effective.

Victim Services of Waterloo Region is fortunate to have over 70 dedicated volunteers who generously give their time, skills and resources to our organization.  Victim Services of Waterloo Region volunteers are valued members of our team and are critical to the ongoing success of our agency.  Without the dedication, hard work and commitment of our volunteers, our agency would be unable to serve our community in the great way it does.

Victim Services of Waterloo Region actively recruits and trains qualified volunteers on an annual basis.

Qualifications  

  • At least 19 years of age
  • Have a valid driver’s license and access to a vehicle
  • Email account
  • Cell phone
  • Able to pass an in-depth Waterloo Regional Police check
  • Flexible schedule, nights, days, weekends, holidays
  • Able to respect and maintain confidentiality
  • Exceptional communication and listening skills
  • Empathetic and non-judgmental
  • Additional language is an asset
  • Able to follow all rules & procedures of Victim Services of Waterloo Region

Recruitment Process

  • Completed the volunteer application form
  • Completed Waterloo Regional Police Service's personal history form
  • Interview with Victim Services staff member(s)
  • Police & reference checks
  • Invitation to training

** Acceptance into the Victim Services volunteer training program does not guarantee that the applicant will be accepted as a volunteer with Victim Services of Waterloo Region.

Training

  • 60 hours of initial training, which is in-class and online
  • Training topics include domestic violence, elder abuse, sexual assault, mental health, grief & bereavement, cultural diversity, crisis intervention, active listening, human trafficking, along with Victim Service’s policy and procedures
  • Complete an exam to evaluate your understanding of the crisis responder role
  • Time Commitment
  • Commit for at least one year  
  • Complete four eight-hour shifts per month
  • Attend mandatory volunteer meetings
  • Additional training opportunities offered

For more information, please contact:

Volunteer Program Coordinator
519-570-9777 ext. 6328
vswr@wrps.on.ca.