SARA:
Sexual Assault Response & Advocacy
(709)216-HELP
SARA is our live 24-hour crisis line offering support and information to those who have experienced sexual assault in Corner Brook and surrounding areas. Volunteers at SARA provide inclusive support and essential services to individuals, aged 16 and older, impacted by sexual violence in Corner Brook. This is a project led by the CBSWC with multiple stakeholders.
​
Our first group of volunteers have been selected and trained. So now a SARA volunteer will be reached, by phone or text, day or night at (709)216-4357. Our volunteers are there to listen. They are well trained and will provide you with the information about accessing resources, about your options and about what to expect if you choose to go to the hospital or file a complaint with the police.
​
Communication with SARA volunteers is confidential (however this confidentiality does not extend to information regarding cases of immediate danger for the caller, a third party, danger/abuse of minors or as ordered by subpoena).
Training & How to Apply
Our training takes place twice a year and is open to anyone who is interested in supporting people in crisis and are in a place in their lives where they have the capacity to do this incredibly difficult work. People who enjoy training are typically those who feel open to learning with others and want to help people in crisis. Training is open to all genders and gender identities. Our volunteers identify as feminist, pro-choice, LGBTQ+ supportive, and empathetic.
​
All volunteers must be at least 19 years old, able to deal with people in crisis in a calm, effective, and non-judgmental manner, have excellent communication and listening skills, able to work without direct supervision, and support the beliefs, goals, and policies of the SARA.
Volunteers Are Still Needed
Our volunteers become part of a dedicated group of people who provide an invaluable service to our community and to survivors of sexual violence in Corner Brook and the surrounding areas. Involvement with SARA gives volunteers the opportunity to gain experience, knowledge, and skills in many areas, including crisis intervention, advocacy, not-for-profit organizations, and a variety of issues related to violence.
The responsibilities of volunteers with SARA are:
-
Confidentiality
-
Minimum number of shifts on the SARA line per month (changes with number of active volunteers)
-
Accompany survivors to the hospital or police station when on-call
-
Attend one monthly Volunteer Meeting
-
Submit Call Statistic Forms within 48 hours of receiving a call
-
Commit to a minimum of one-year volunteering with SARA
-
Submit required signed documentation (including but not limited to Confidentiality Agreement, Certificate of Conduct, Volunteer Contact Information, etc.)
-
Commit to ongoing self-care
Volunteers are a very valuable resource and we will provide volunteers with:
-
Training and orientation to perform required duties
-
Feedback and support from fellow volunteers and staff
-
Opportunities to use existing skills and develop new ones
-
Recognition for efforts and accomplishments
