SARC seeks volunteer Victim Advocates

  • Published
  • By Donna Casey
  • Goodfellow Sexual Assault Response Coordinator
GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- The Sexual Assault Response Coordinator is recruiting victim advocates to provide essential support, liaison services and care to victims of sexual assault. The 40-hour victim advocate training is scheduled for Dec. 5-9 and 14 from 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. at the SARC office, building 258.

Victim advocates are a vital part of the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program. Victim advocates have the duty of responding to sexual assault victims and making referrals for the help they need, whether it be assisting them with a medical exam, seeing the chaplaincy, interacting with law enforcement officials, or going through the judicial process. If needed, they are the emotional support for the victim.

"A victim advocate is the person who is assigned to each victim and will work with them through their case, whether they go restricted or unrestricted," said Senior Airman Mercedes Bowers, Goodfellow Victim Advocate. "It's the Wingman concept. It's someone who will check on them to make sure that they're alright and be a confidential ear to lean on when they need it the most."

Program volunteers must possess the maturity to assist in a sensitive situation. Only active duty military personnel and Defense Department civilian employees selected by the SARC may serve as VAs. Personnel assigned to the Judge Advocate's office, Chaplain's office, Equal Opportunity office, law enforcement, Inspector General staff and some departments of the medical center are not eligible to serve as victim advocates due to the potential conflict of interest. Individuals on G-Series orders, first sergeants, and chief master sergeants are also ineligible to serve as VAs.

Responsibilities include providing crisis intervention, referral and ongoing non-clinical support. Non-clinical support includes providing information on available options and resources to assist the victim in making informed decisions about the case. VA services will continue until the victim states support is no longer needed.

While performing duties, the VA will report directly to the SARC. Volunteers will advise supervisors when they are performing VA duties and will be away from their duty station.

Unauthorized disclosure of a covered communication, improper release of medical information and other violations of the Air Force Policy and Guidance on Sexual Assault Prevention and Response may result in action under the Uniform Code of Military Justice or administrative action.

VAs will complete a written application signed by their supervisor and commander, a personal interview with the SARC, a background check and 40 hours of training before ever assisting with on-call services.

FMI: SARC office, (325) 654-1559 or (325) 654-1572.