Springfield, Mo. – The Springfield Victim Center is launching its final advocate‑training session of the year this weekend and is actively recruiting volunteers to staff its 24‑hour hotline. With nearly half of all calls arriving outside normal business hours, the center relies on dedicated community members to provide timely assistance.
Why volunteers are essential
According to the center, 44% of hotline calls come after the office is closed. Those calls often involve urgent matters such as ex parte orders of protection, restraining orders, and other safety concerns. Tara Benson, executive director of the Victim Center, explained, “We are the only provider open after hours and on weekends to help with ex parte assistance. Volunteers ensure callers receive the help they need when they need it most.”
Training details
The weekend training will be conducted remotely and will include a full day of instruction. Participants will learn about the center’s history, the range of services offered, and best practices for connecting callers to appropriate resources. The curriculum also covers how to handle ex parte orders of protection, a frequent topic on the hotline.
After completing the training, volunteers will be screened and then scheduled for shifts that fit their personal availability. The center emphasizes flexibility, allowing volunteers to work from home whenever they have time.
How to get involved
Anyone interested in supporting victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, or other crimes is encouraged to apply. Prospective volunteers can find more information and submit an application through the Victim Center’s website. The center stresses that no prior experience is required—just a commitment to helping neighbors in crisis.
“Our volunteers are the backbone of our operation,” Benson said. “By training and empowering community members, we can extend our reach and ensure that every caller, regardless of the hour, receives compassionate and effective assistance.”
Impact on the community
The Victim Center’s after‑hours service fills a critical gap in Springfield’s safety net. By offering a reliable point of contact for victims seeking protection orders, the center helps reduce the risk of further harm and supports the broader goal of a safer, more caring community.
For more details on the training session, volunteer requirements, and how to apply, visit the Victim Center’s website or contact the organization directly.
Original reporting: KY3 Springfield (local) — read the source article.
