Volunteering with the Victim Assistance Support Team
The Calgary Police Service Victim Assistance Support Team (VAST) provides non-judgmental emotional support, a listening ear and practical assistance to victims of crime or tragedy. VAST is looking for suitable volunteers to become victim support advocates.
Requirements:
- You must be at least 18 years of age;
- You must be an excellent communicator and able to converse effectively in English;
- You must be able to commit to a minimum of 5 hours per week;
- You must be able to attend all required training sessions;
- You must complete and pass an Enhanced Security Clearance Declaration and the application process.
Volunteer opportunities
All volunteers with the Victim Assistance Support Team work in the following programs:
- The Call Centre: All Victim Support Advocates initiate phone contact with victims of personal crime or tragedy providing case and court updates and information; emotional support and referrals to community agencies for counseling, bereavement and other appropriate supports. The call centre is located in Police Headquarters, 5111 47th Street NE.
- The Court Support Program: Upon completion of Advanced Training, Victim Support Advocates provide court orientation for victims and witnesses subpoenaed to testify and court accompaniment during preliminary hearings and trial.
- The Crisis Response Program: Upon completion of Advanced Training, Victim Support Advocates provide immediate, on-scene crisis support to victims of crime and tragedy at the time of an incident. Volunteers are required to sign up for three, 12-hour, "on call" shifts per month and must have a valid vehicle operator's license, and access to a vehicle is required. This program operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Contact us
For more information about volunteering with the Victim Assistance Support Team, call 403-428-8398.
Call Centre operates Monday to Thursday 8 am to 10 pm and Friday 8 am to 5 pm. The Unit is closed weekends and statutory holidays.