Volunteer - Community Support Services

Volunteer – Community Support Services

A Safe Place - Lake County Crisis Center for the Prevention & Treatment of Domestic Violence Inc.

Lake County, IL

Volunteers play a vital role in supporting survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking across Lake County. Through direct service, operational assistance, and community engagement, volunteers extend the reach and impact of A Safe Place programs.

Last year, volunteers donated more than 10,400 hours in support of survivors and agency operations.

Volunteers may serve in one or more of the following areas:

• In-Kind Donations
• Administrative & Operational Support
• Facilities & Property Support
• Corporate / Group Service Days
• Direct Client Engagement*
  • Legal Advocacy
  • Emergency Shelter Services
  • Emergency Crisis Response Services
  • Behavioral Health
  • Youth Services

Responsibilities vary depending on program placement and may include:

• Assisting survivors at the Lake County Courthouse with preparation of Orders of Protection paperwork
• Providing emotional support and courtroom advocacy accompaniment
• Augmenting staff in answering the 24-hour help line, serving as a first point of contact for survivors seeking safety and support
• Supporting emergency shelter operations
• Assisting children's counseling programs by mentoring child witnesses of domestic violence
• Reading to preschool-aged children and assisting school-aged children with homework within shelter programs
• Providing staff relief with phone coverage and reception duties
• Assisting with administrative functions, including the preparation of large mailings and general office support
• Participating in agency-hosted events and corporate/group service days
• Supporting seasonal community initiatives such as Back to School drives, Coat Drives, Easter basket assembly, and Holiday food basket distribution
• Supporting property maintenance, landscaping, painting, decorating, and facility improvement projects
• Assisting with general maintenance and upkeep of agency buildings and grounds

Requirements

All volunteers must submit:

• Individual Volunteer Application
• DCFS Background Check
• Criminal Background Check
• Confidentiality Agreement
• Personal Reference Form

Qualifications

• Qualified volunteers demonstrate:
• Compassion and emotional intelligence
• Professional boundaries and confidentiality awareness
• Commitment to trauma-informed care principles
• Ability to work respectfully with diverse populations
• Reliability and accountability

*Direct Client Engagement Training Requirement

Volunteers working directly with clients must complete a 40-hour Domestic Violence Training Program provided by A Safe Place before engaging with clients.

This training equips volunteers with knowledge in domestic violence dynamics, trauma-informed care, crisis intervention, and advocacy practices.

Training Fee: The cost of the 40-hour training program is the responsibility of the volunteer. Fee details and registration information will be provided during the application process.

We are grateful for individuals who are willing to give their time, skills, and compassion to serve others.

If you are ready to make a meaningful difference in Lake County, we encourage you to submit your volunteer application and take the next step in becoming a Safe Place for someone in need.