Clove Alliance, the leading organization dedicated to supporting survivors of sexual violence in the Kankakee region, is calling for community members to join its ranks as volunteers. The organization is gearing-up to provide comprehensive 40-hour Sexual Violence Crisis Intervention Training, commencing on April 29, at Clove Alliance’s main office, 1440 West Court Street in Kankakee.
Led by Clove Alliance staff and subject matter experts from the community, training equips participants to understand the complexities of sexual violence and support survivors. Attendees will learn to: Respond to survivors with sensitivity and support; Recognize issues influencing different types of sexual violence; Understand the medical and legal rights of survivors; Apply theories of rape culture; and utilize person-centered practices, and more!
Upon completion, trainees can volunteer in various capacities. Roles include Crisis Hotline Advocates, who provide around-the-clock phone support and assist survivors at local hospitals during emergency room visits. Indirect service opportunities are available, too, such as event support or occasional office front desk coverage.
The free training offers numerous benefits, including certification in Sexual Assault Crisis Intervention from the Illinois Coalition Against Sexual Assault. Qualified professionals also have the option to earn 35 CEUs/CPDUs in partnership with Kankakee Community College for a fee of $300.
The upcoming session will run April 29 to May 22, on Monday and Wednesday evenings, from 6-8:30 p.m., and two Saturdays, May 11 and 18, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., with 16 hours of independent study.
Prospective trainees are encouraged to visit clovealliance.org/volunteer to learn more and apply.