The Boulder County Sheriff’s Office Victim Assistance Program is staffed by dedicated and trained volunteer victim advocates. Working in conjunction with Boulder County law enforcement agencies and the criminal justice system, victim advocates provide crisis response to victims of violent crime and trauma and survivors of sudden death through on-call and outreach programs.
Goals of the Victim Assistance Program
- Assess and provide resources and information to victims of crime and survivors.
- Provide on-call crisis intervention, as requested by law enforcement.
- Provide information and referral to appropriate partner agencies.
- Provide education and awareness of victims’ rights.
- Work in collaboration with law enforcement agencies, the District Attorney’s Victim/Witness Program, and other partner agencies.
Criteria to Become a Victim Assistance Advocate
- Ability to work as an on-scene or outreach volunteer.
- Possess an open, non-judgmental attitude towards victims.
- Ability to communicate well with people.
- Possess a genuine concern and empathy for victims of crime, and survivors of sudden death or violent death.
- Ability to be an advocate for victims/survivors regardless of the circumstances.
Benefits to Being a Victim Assistance Advocate
- Gain direct experience in providing support to people in need.
- Learn about law enforcement, the justice system, victim right’s crimes, and emotional response to trauma.
- Enhance awareness in the community of the rights of victims and their families.
- Opportunity to gain valuable personal insights while serving as an advocate.
