Victim/Witness Services recruiting volunteers

The Lethbridge Police Victim/Witness Services Unit is seeking community heroes – no cape required – to be there for people during some of their darkest days.

Crisis Support Workers are the foundation of our 33-year-old program and new volunteers are needed to continue helping victims or witnesses of crime or trauma navigate the acute challenges of their experiences within the criminal justice system.

Victim/Witness Services is built on the belief that everyone we serve deserves to be well supported and find healing. From emergency scene response and follow-up trauma-informed support, to court preparations and the unique support of a facility dog, the team of dedicated volunteers aid in creating opportunities to heal and foster hope and empowerment while promoting a safer and healthier community. 

It takes a team of approximately 60 volunteers to ensure V/WSU can deliver 24-hour, 365 days-a-year crisis support to anyone who has been the victim of a crime within the City of Lethbridge. As this vital support is offered widely throughout the community it is crucial that the team is comprised of individuals of diverse ages, genders and cultures. 

“We want our team to reflect the city we support,” said Catherine Pooley, V/WSU Manager. “Lethbridge is such a diverse community and we can learn so much from working side-by-side. We have the potential to better understand and support the unique needs of various communities when they have a place at our table. If you have the desire to help the Lethbridge community, there is a place for you in V/WSU.” 

While there is no specific experience required, the unit is seeking individuals who are 18 or older, have a clear criminal record and a desire to provide acute crisis care to people from all walks of life who have been victims of crime, trauma or tragedy.

Volunteer Crisis Support Workers receive extensive training and ongoing learning opportunities to support the Lethbridge Police Service by providing trauma-informed, client-centered care for victims both on scene and over the phone.

Applications are being accepted until Oct. 15 through a user-friendly online application form available at https://lethbridgepolice.bamboohr.com/careers/341