Victim Services Volunteer

Victim Services Volunteer

Salary

$0.00 Hourly

Location

Fillmore Complex Administration Building: 12220 Fillmore Street, West Olive, MI

Job Type

Volunteer

Job Number

VSV

Department

Sheriffs Office

Opening Date

12/12/2025

Closing Date

Continuous

FLSA

Determined by Position

Bargaining Unit

None

• Description
• Benefits

Job Description

The Victim Services Volunteer is part of a dedicated volunteer group committed to supporting those citizens impacted by tragedy, including victims of crime or trauma and their families. Works to reduce trauma by offering emotional support, crisis intervention, and resource referrals to appropriate community services. Acts as a liaison between victims, their families, and emergency service providers.

Essential Job Functions

The essential functions of this position include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Responds to emergency scenes (e.g., death investigations, fatal accidents) when requested by law enforcement or emergency personnel. Works in pairs during call-outs, responding promptly when dispatched and following all safety guidelines and instructions.
• Provides immediate on-scene emotional support to victims, survivors, and families experiencing crisis, trauma, or loss, helping stabilize the situation until longer-term resources can be connected.
• Offers practical assistance, such as helping locate contacts, arranging transportation, gathering basic information, or explaining what to expect during and after the incident.
• Assists victims in understanding their rights and shares access to community services when appropriate.
• Participates in a rotating on-call schedule, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Attends required trainings, monthly meetings, and continuing education to maintain active volunteer status.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Education, Training and Experience

No prior experience required. Must complete a one-time training conference covering topics such as trauma-informed care, victim rights, cultural sensitivity, and scene safety. Participates in role-playing scenarios and workshops to build advocacy skills. Receive certification upon successful completion of training.

Additional Requirements and Information

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to speak calmly, clearly, and respectfully with individuals under significant emotional stress.
• Ability to remain composed in high-stress, emotionally charged situations, using good judgment and maintaining professionalism.
• General awareness of local community resources, social service agencies, and victim-support programs.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Able to demonstrate compassion toward people from diverse backgrounds and life experiences.
• Comfort with maintaining confidentiality and handling sensitive information appropriately.
• Must be able to adhere to personal boundaries, including knowing when to step back and when to seek additional guidance.

Licenses and Certifications:

Must possess a valid Michigan drivers license.

Physical Requirements:

Must be able to perform essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodations, including, but not limited to, visual and/or audiological appliances, and devices to increase mobility.

• Frequent standing, sitting, and walking for extended periods.
• Sufficient mobility to navigate uneven terrain, stairs, or tight spaces.
• Sufficient hearing and vision to communicate clearly, observe surroundings, and follow instructions from emergency responders.

Working Conditions:

This role may involve exposure to inclement weather conditions, including rain, snow, and extreme temperatures. Work is performed in the community in close proximity to members of the public.

Disclaimer:

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the volunteer. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned, at any time with or without notice.

Unpaid positions do not include any fringe benefits, unless required by law. Please contact Human Resources with any questions.

Employer Ottawa County

Address 12220 Fillmore Street

West Olive, Michigan, 49460

Phone 616-738-4800

Website http://www.miottawa.org