Volunteers needed to help crime victims

The Larimer County Sheriff’s Office and Fort Collins Police Services are looking for volunteers to serve as victim advocates.

Victim advocates assist victims of certain crimes and help protect their rights guaranteed under Colorado law. Advocates often act as a liaison between the victim and law enforcement officers investigating an incident and offer information about the criminal justice system and the resources available to the victim.

Victim advocates also provide assistance and needed emotional support to victims of circumstance. For example, advocates often accompany officers while delivering death notifications or spend hours with families who are waiting for word about the safety of a missing family member.

Volunteers must be at least 21 years of age, complete 40 to 50 hours of training and successfully complete the application process, including a background investigation. Each volunteer advocate is asked to cover at least six 12-hour on-call shifts and attend a meeting each month.

For information on becoming a victim advocate for the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office, contact Susan Johnston at 970-498-5149. For Fort Collins Police Services, contact Lissa Funk at 970-224-6089.