Responder Advocates

Supporting Victims in Crisis:

Responder Advocates are trained volunteers who partner with agencies or individuals to provide emotional support to individuals and families affected by violence. These dedicated advocates ensuring victims and/or their families receive immediate care and guideance during critical moments.

Purpose of the Responder Advocate Program:

The Responder Advocate Program is designed to offer compassionate emotional support and connect victims to needed resources in the aftermath of violence. Responder Advocates are available on-call to support victims and their families during moments of crisis-whether responding on scene or via other means. They offer a steady presence, provide crisis counseling, assist with safety planning, and help connect individuals to the next level of care and services.

By being present during those intial, vulnerable moments, Responder Advocates help victims better understand their options - not just for themselves, but also for their families. All support offered is FREE and CONFIDENTIAL, ensuring victims feel safe, heard, and empowered to take the next steps toward healing.

Key Responsibilities of a Responder Advocate:

On-Scene Support: Providing immediate emotional support and guidance to victims while law enforcement officers focus on criminal and investigative tasks.

Crisis Assistance: Offering critical information about available resources, such as safe shelters, protective orders, and other urgent services that prioritize safety.

Education: Helping adult family members understand the broader effects of violence in the household and supportin them with safety planning strategies and referrals to ongoing support.

Resource Referrals: Connecting victims to trauma-informed counseling services, community programs, and recovery resources that suppot their long-term healing and well-being.

Responder Advocates play a vital role in bridging the gap between law enforcement and victim services, ensuring those impacted by violence feel seen, heard, and supported during their most vulnerable moments.

Why Responder Advocates Matter:

Responder Advocates play a vital role in bridging the gap between agencies and victim services. Their presence ensures that individuals impacted by violence feel seen, heard, and supported - not only in the moment of crisis but also in the journey that follows.