SHOULD I BECOME AN ADVOCATE?

An ideal candidate for advocacy would:

• Have time that they could donate to the community
• Have the desire to get involved
• Be reliable

Don't be intimidated if you have no experience!  Most advocates have no previous experience before they sign up.  Being an advocate can provide you with very meaningful experiences.  Some advocates have said that advocacy has given them:

• A deeper sense of purpose
• A better understanding of community
• More personal strength
• A sense that they have really made a difference in the world

Browse through this page to find the different types of advocacy that are available in our community.

VICTIM'S ADVOCATE WITH THE SEXUAL ASSAULT SUPPORT SERVICES (SASS) PROGRAM

An advocate with the SASS program is a person who responds to victims of sexual assault and gives them the strength and support they need to become survivors.  Training, resources, and ongoing support are always available, and free, so don't be intimidated.  Should you choose to volunteer as a victim's advocate with us, you will receive 40+ hours of free training that includes:

-An detailed orientation of the legal and medical processes related to sexual assault

-Training from SASS staff, law enforcement, prosecution and other community service providers

-Emotional preparation

-Ongoing support and assistance from SASS staff.

Advocates work together with law enforcement and medical personnel to better support victims of sexual violence and to ensure that they receive the support and guidance needed to become survivors.

Contact us to learn more

COMMUNITY ADVOCACY

Are you interested in getting involved, but you don't want to work with victims face-to-face?  If so, you can become an advocate in our community, and MASS can help you find your way.  Here are some examples of community advocacy:

• Men's Leadership Council:  One form of community advocacy that directly focuses on sexual and domestic violence prevention is MASS's Men's Leadership Council.  This council:
  • Takes action against violence through new programs and events
  • Meets quarterly
  • Is open minded about working with diverse groups within the community
  • If you have good ideas, or if you would like to join other men in the community, please contact us!
    

• Law Enforcement Volunteering:  Contact your local law enforcement agency for more information.

• Mentoring:  Many children need adults of sound character to use as models for healthy and happy lives.  If you are interested in mentoring, please contact us!

There are many other opportunities to be a community advocate. Contact us to find other ways that you can help our community.

PERSONAL ADVOCACY

Personal advocacy means carrying our message with you, making it an important part of your life, and letting other people know about it. Even if you can't offer us any time, you can always take our message with you and become the change that you would like to see in the community.

Find your own personal ways to let everyone in your life know that this cause is important.

For more information, see our about link.