Volunteers sought for domestic violence response team

VERNON — Applications are being accepted for volunteers to join the Vernon Township Domestic Violence Response Team working with the Vernon Police Department.

These teams of trained community members will respond to the police station immediately following an incident of domestic violence, assisting victims and their children by offering support, encouragement, information, and referrals. Volunteers work in partnership with law enforcement officers and domestic violence professionals, each partner bringing separate and distinct skills and expertise to the collaborative project.

DVRTs have been successfully established all over the state of New Jersey, and it is an area in which Sussex County is expanding, according to Jamie Bernard, executive director of DASI: Domestic Abuse & Sexual Assault Intervention Services. The teams provide an opportunity for the community to come together and help end domestic violence and abuse. Volunteers report feeling deep satisfaction that they are able to help during this critical time. They feel that they are truly making a difference in the lives of families who have suffered much pain and loss, and are helping them to move forward. Existing teams are the New Jersey State Police team, Newton-Andover Township regional team and the newly established Stanhope-Hopatcong regional team.

The application process includes submission of the application form, a personal interview, completion of a 40-hour training course, and reference and criminal background checks. The next DVRT volunteer training will begin in the fall of 2015. Interested persons are encouraged to submit the application as soon as possible to begin the process.

Applications for all teams are available by contacting DASI at 973-579-2386 or minnick@dasi.org.