It takes a special person to reach out to others when they are in a time of need, and that's exactly who the Red Deer RCMP Victim Services Unit is looking for.
 
They're hosting an information night tonight (May 4th) for anyone that has ever considered the volunteer victim advocate role or if you'd just like to learn more about what it entails.
 
Victim Services Program Manager Constable Holly Erb explains some of the requirements and commitments involved.

“We’re looking for somebody who is over 18, is either a Canadian resident or has been a permanent resident for 5 years. They need to have good communication skills. They need to have compassion, the drive and willingness to help others. We do ask that they offer us at least 12 hours of office shifts per month as well as being on call if they need to be called out in an emergency or crisis situation”.
Erb says advocates are tasked to provide information, support and referrals to victims of crime and tragedy.

“They assist others by calling, giving them those supports, they do court preparation with victims, they attend court with them, they go to different appointments say with the Crown Prosecutor or with a Police Officer in different situations. They just need to be an overall caring person that wants to help our community”.
 
The Red Deer VSU currently has 30 volunteers.
 
Tonight's open house starts at 6 pm at the downtown Red Deer RCMP detachment, you can also find out more information on the Red Deer VSU website