Volunteers needed to support SARC program

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Katherine Windish
  • 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --  The 31st Fighter Wing needs victim advocate volunteers of both genders to support the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response program at Aviano Air Base and its geographically separated units. Applications are due by Jan. 14.

Applicants must be military or Air Force civilian personnel and have chain of command approval. They will be required to attend 40 hours of initial training Jan. 24-28, all required follow up training, and perform standby duties once per quarter.

"[Victim advocates] are the backbone of the sexual assault program," said Capt. Natosha Reed, 31st FW Sexual Assault Response Coordinator. "They [provide key support] vital to the victim throughout the whole process of unrestricted or restricted reporting. They give the victim information, and any emotional support they may need."

Once trained, volunteers work with Captain Reed in providing a support system for the victim of a sexual assault. Upon notification of an assault by the SARC, victim advocates meet the victims and assist them in various ways, such as: accompanying them to doctor's appointments, the chaplain's office, as well as being there for the victim during the prosecution of the assailant or to provide emotional encouragement.

"I became a VA when I arrived to Aviano in 2007," said Master Sgt. Michael O'Connor, 31st FW. "Although I never was called to respond and assist a victim, it's been an eye-opening experience with all of the education and training I've received."

Victim advocates ensure the victims know and understand their rights and have access to all SARC programs. Whether a victim chooses restricted or unrestricted reporting, they should always be cognizant of what avenues are available.

"When interviewing a prospective victim advocate I'm looking for a variety of characteristics that are essential to being a volunteer," said Captain Reed. "These include patience, compassion, focus, understanding, dependability, honesty and trustworthiness."

For more information, call DSN 632-6010 or e-mail 31FW.SARC@aviano.af.mil.