The Envision Counselling and Support Centre is seeking volunteers to operate its 24-hour abuse and sexual assault support line.
The agency is looking to grow, thanks to its recent expansion in programming to help exploited individuals.
“We all have something to offer that will make our community a little stronger, a little more vibrant. And when we work together, there’s no limit to the heights we can reach.” said Envision executive director Christa Daku.
In a press release, Envision said statistics show 60 per cent of sexual abuse or sexual assault victims are under the age of 17. One in three teen dating relationships has physical aggression present.
The agency reports the sexual assault rates have risen in Estevan over the past year.
Envision believes violence affects all classes, genders, ages, ethnic and racial groups. It can happen to anyone at any time though no one likes to admit it happens in their own communities and families.
Those are just a few reasons why Envision is looking for help to keep the support line running. Without dedicated volunteers, the agency would not be able to offer this support. If anyone has ever considered volunteering, this would be a good time.
Envision currently has 19 volunteers and they are looking to add more.
“We like to recognize our volunteers anonymously for the great work that they do in our community and surrounding areas,” said Envision volunteer co-ordinator Renée Borhot.
“The best part of my job is being creative in ways to show our volunteers how much we truly appreciate them. All the wonderful volunteers we have with us … do this … work, not because they are publicly acknowledged, because they’re not, but because they know the support is needed in southeast Saskatchewan.”
Being a part of a volunteer group has major benefits, such as learning new skills, being part of the community, and feeling a sense of achievement. Envision volunteers are able to help from the comfort of their own homes with the use of their cell phones.
People have the flexibility of signing up for shifts according to their own schedules. Every volunteer is asked to sign up for at least two shifts per month. Those with small children have not had a problem or an inconvenience during daytime shifts. There are at least two people scheduled on the phone line at all times.
The next round of volunteer training will be Jan. 30 and 31, and Feb. 6 and 7. Anyone who is interested in attending is asked to register by Jan. 27.
