New program will boost victim assistance efforts

The Beaverton Police Department is forming a new Victim Advocate Volunteer Program.

The goal of this program is to train 20 to 25 volunteer advocates. These advocates will provide support, safety planning, resource referrals and answer victims’ questions.

“Studies have shown that the sooner a victim receives assistance from an advocate, the sooner they can work on the healing process,” said Officer Mike Rowe, Beaverton police spokesman.

Volunteer advocates will take on-call shifts and be available to respond along with Beaverton police officers to all incidents of domestic violence and other crimes where victims are present (excluding sexual assault).

Once selected, volunteers will receive 40 hours of training in victim advocacy, trauma, crisis response, domestic violence and program policies and procedures.

For a detailed description, requirements, closing date and application for the Victim Advocate Volunteer Team, visit beavertonoregon.gov.