Medical and Legal Advocate

The Survivor Empowerment Center’s Volunteer Medical and Legal Advocates provide support and information to sexual assault survivors and their loved ones in southern Illinois. With the survivor’s permission, advocates remain with the survivor throughout the medical examination and evidence collection in the hospital, and support them as they navigate the legal system. Advocates also help survivors connect to other community resources and services. The advocate’s work is centered on the survivor as they explore their rights and options.

Requirements:

• All volunteers must be at least 18 years old.
• Complete 40-hour ICASA Sexual Assault and Crisis Intervention training.
• Complete a federal criminal background check and a background check with the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services.
• Attend monthly meetings with the Outreach/Volunteer Manager and other Volunteers.
• Participate in ongoing education opportunities.
• Demonstrate a non-judgmental, supportive attitude toward survivors of sexual violence. Strong interpersonal/communication skills and a focus on empathy are essential.

For additional information, please contact outreach@empoweringsurvivors.org.