VST Volunteer Opportunities

Thank you for your interest in volunteering with the Human Services Department's Victim Support Team (VST)!

Virtual Information Sessions

We encourage everyone interested in volunteering to attend one of our virtual information sessions to get more information about the program and academy training. Please select the date that works best for you and RSVP using this online form.

We look forward to speaking with you about volunteering with VST! 

Applications open now for the 2023 Spring Academy!

VST is hosting one training cycle this year in Spring 2023. If you need assistance with completing the application, please reach out to victimsupportteam@seattle.gov.

TO APPLY

• Click here to open the VST Volunteer Application.
• Please read the instructions carefully before you begin.
• Ensure everything is fully complete before submitting. You will receive a confirmation message.
• All applications will be reviewed and applicants will be contacted.
  • VST has a competitive selection process, both due to capacity and the unique and sensitive nature of the services we provide.
  • Upon request, applicants who are not selected can receive information for other community-based volunteer programs.

VST Program Updates

• There are now expanded opportunities for VST Volunteers. All applicants will be asked to select a preferred role.
  • In-Person Weekend Teams
  • Remote Advocacy
  • Hybrid
  • Further descriptions available on the application

VST Training Academy

The academy is run as a cohort, where new volunteers are trained on an extensive range of topics. The 50 hours of learning provide the foundational knowledge necessary to support families in crisis and achieve a clear understanding of the VST scope.

Spring Academy will be a 4-week intensive, with a combination of eLearning, in-person Saturday classes 8:30am-5:00pm, and virtual evening sessions on Wednesdays from 6:00pm-8:00pm. See the dates below:

• Week 1: Wednesday April 19th  & Saturday April 22nd
• Week 2: Wednesday April 26th  & Saturday April 29th
• Week 3: Wednesday May 3rd & Saturday May 6th
• Week 4: Wednesday May 10th & Saturday May 13th

Testimonials from VST Academy Graduates: 

"This is probably the best learning experience I have had as an adult. This program has filled my heart in a way that I did not expect and has reinforced why this program is so important." 

"This program has been exceptional! I have been involved with many organizations over the years and by far, this one was the most comprehensive and well organized." 

Volunteering with VST

VST Volunteers offer support to survivors in a unique time of need, and their commitment and impact make this program a vital part of the City's response to violence. Volunteers can come from anywhere in the community... they do not need to have a background in social work or counseling. They are teachers, engineers, nurses, survivors, students, homemakers, retirees and beyond. What our team shares is that they each care deeply about making a difference in their community.

Benefits of volunteering with VST: 

• Make an important impact - provide compassionate and non-judgmental support to survivors of violence and their loved ones.
• Receive free of cost extensive training and ongoing mentorship/support to continually cultivate advocacy skills and knowledge
• Interact with experts in the field of victim advocacy and an array of staff members and other volunteers
• Build connections, community and relationships

How will I know if this is the right time for me to volunteer with VST?

• The application, onboarding and training to join the team is an intensive process and requires investment to the fullest. We ask for a commitment of 8 hours per month for at least one year beginning at the completion of all training and backgrounding. It's important to consider if this current season of your life will allow the time and space for this volunteer position.
• It has been at least 1 year since you became personally connected to the issue of sexual or domestic violence. Additionally, if you identify as a survivor, you have processed your experience through counseling or another method and you do not feel a sense of crisis in your daily life.
• You have a strong support system in place and can identify those who would be supportive of your volunteer experience. 

If you are unsure about volunteering, attend an information session and make your decision with the support of staff who can answer your questions.