Brighton seeks volunteer victim advocates

The Brighton Police Department is currently accepting volunteer victim advocates. Volunteer advocates provide on-scene contact with victims and witnesses of violent crime, sudden death, and other emergency situations. They provide immediate crisis intervention, individual and family support, information about the criminal justice system, support agency referral, aide in acquiring emergency shelter and facilitate other immediate needs of victims.

“This is a great opportunity for anyone looking for a way to give back to the community and provide an invaluable service to those in need,” said Kim Dressel, Victim Services Coordinator.

Each volunteer is required to volunteer a minimum of four 12-hour shifts per month, including evenings, weekends and occasional holidays. Volunteers are required to respond within 30 minutes of dispatch contact.

In order to participate, volunteers must:

Be at least 21 years of age
Be able to undergo and pass a background investigation
Be a holder of a valid Colorado driver’s license with a good record
Be compassionate and non-judgmental with victims of crime
Be able to maintain confidentiality
Have strong interpersonal skills
Have self-motivation
Be able to perform under emotional and adverse conditions
Be able to respond to a variety of different locations
Be willing to commit to at least 12 months.

For information on how to become a victims advocate volunteer, visit www.brightonco.gov/department/division.php?fDD=3-45 or contact Kim Dressel at 303-655-2308 or kdressel@brightonco.gov.