Volunteer Program FAQs
What does it mean to be a Volunteer? Becoming a Volunteer is an investment of time, energy and heart. You will have opportunities to partner in our mission to support survivors and end intimate partner violence.
How much time does it take to be a Volunteer? Training is required before taking on any volunteer role, and can range from 10 – 50 hours depending on the role you are interested in. Volunteers commit to 12 hours, minimum, each month in their volunteer role(s). For more information about training requirements and options go here.
How do I become a Volunteer? Fill out the Volunteer Application and someone will contact you within 72 hours.
Do I need to make a long-term commitment for the program? We ask that Volunteers commit to at least one year with the Volunteer Program. Within that year, some volunteers take on one role, some volunteers take on multiple roles simultaneously, and some volunteers try different roles throughout the year. The program is flexible to meet your interests and capacity.
Do I need to have any special skills or meet any requirements? No. We encourage people from all cultures and professions, and all ethnic and educational backgrounds. Once accepted into the program, you will receive all necessary training.
Requirements include:
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Willingness to complete necessary background checks and participate in an interview (some positions may require more than one interview)
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Complete a minimum of 10-50 hours of training
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Willingness to commit to STAND! for at least one year
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$80 per volunteer is the suggested amount to cover a portion of the training materials. Other fees apply for LiveScan (background) clearance.
Exactly what does a Volunteer do? Please see our list of Volunteer Roles for available positions and descriptions.
What sort of support will I receive? You will be supported every step of the way. You will have chances for continuing education and other online resources on the STAND! website. Each program will have their own way of supporting you — you may have a monthly meeting or you may have an annual event.
Is there a fee for the training? Volunteers are encouraged to pay $80 for the training. Other fees apply for LiveScan (background) clearance. If you’re interested in taking the training strictly for educational or certification purposes, the cost is $200.
I’m a service provider. Can I take your training too? Yes. If you are interested in taking our training but not volunteering with us, the training fee is $200. Our training meets CA Evidence Code 1037.1 requirements required for “domestic violence counselors”. Domestic Violence Counselors are defined as “a person who is employed by a domestic violence victim service organization…whether financially compensated or not, for the purpose of rendering advice or assistance to victims of domestic violence…” Please contact our Volunteer Manager if you have any further questions by emailing volunteer@standffov.org or calling 925-603-0175