Volunteers who work in the RCMP Victim Service Unit may see some devastating sights, and so special training prepares them to support individuals in crisis.
And Prince George training is a cut above the rest.
The program offered in Prince George won the 2009 B.C. award for its staff leadership.
The unit is a city-funded organization that's partnered with RCMP since it began in 1989. Its personnel accompany RCMP officers to sometimes brutal scenes of crime and tragedy to provide support to survivors and loved ones of serious offences such as murders, assaults, sexual assaults, as well as sudden deaths, suicides and motor vehicle fatalities.
The call is out now for potential volunteers who are also willing to commit to 16 hours of office work per month and manning the phones one weekend per month.
An information session is being held at city hall Jan. 13 at 7 p.m. with no obligation to commit.
Krista Levar, program leader, said training not only stands volunteers in good stead for the rest of their lives, but acts as a stepping stone for careers in such fields as social work, police, security and more.
"Our training program is all encompassing to include self defence, driver training and field trips to places workers need to become familiar with like funeral homes, and we work with many agencies that can broaden horizons," she said.
"For volunteers, it's always interesting around here. We become good friends who have social times together like picnics, bowling and overnight retreats. We need to be able to talk and confide in each other regarding the work we do. It's confidential information, so you can't talk to family or outsiders about it."
There are currently 11 active volunteers with some signed up for training and four more spots to fill.
Levar said volunteers should be compassionate people who know themselves if they can cope in difficult circumstances.
"It's unique, and not for everyone, but it's a rare opportunity for those who want to help others and like to make a difference."
The training program involves 60 hours of class time over six months of weekly sessions on Wednesday evenings and three Saturday classes at the local RCMP detachment on Brunswick Street. The training begins Jan. 26.
For Levar, the most important component of the unit is the team building and bonding among volunteers.
In the field, she says she "is always fascinated by the strength of the people going through a tragedy."
For more information contact Levar at 250-561-3373.
