180 Turning Lives Around (180), a private nonprofit organization in Monmouth County that provides confidential support and advocacy to victims of domestic violence, will conduct a 40-hour mandatory training course for new Domestic Violence Response Team (DVRT) victim advocates.
Training will be provided to successful applicants. Training will take place from Oct. 1-24 on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 6-9:30 p.m. at the Ocean Township Police Department, 399 Monmouth Road, Ocean Township.
180’s volunteer DVRT advocates are civilian members of the community who work with law enforcement personnel to provide support, information and resources to victims of domestic violence at police headquarters, according to the organization.
Advocates also discuss safety planning with victims and legal rights in regard to obtaining a temporary restraining order. Trained advocates help to empower victims to make informed decisions for themselves and their families, according to the organization.
Volunteers must be at least 18 years old to apply; have access to reliable 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 the mandatory training, according to the organization.
Police departments and 180 are committed to culturally and socially diverse teams to better serve the community. Bilingual capability is helpful. Prior knowledge of domestic violence is not required. The identities of the DVRT volunteers are kept anonymous, according to the organization.
To request an application or for additional information, contact Sue Levine at [email protected] or 732 264-4360, ext. 4271. Applicants must provide their town of residence. The deadline to apply is Sept. 20.
Applications are also available for download at https://180nj.org/give-help/volunteering/domestic-violence-response-team-advocate/
Visit www.180nj.org for more information.