The next round of RESTORE volunteer advocate training will kick off later this year. Advocates aid RESTORE in its mission of empowering survivors of sexual violence through compassion, validation, and healing, and leading the communities of Monroe, Genesee, Livingston, Orleans, and Wyoming counties on education, advocacy, and social justice. RESTORE delivers 24/7 confidential support to survivors, with services ranging from crisis intervention to medical advocacy to court accompaniment.
The advocate role involves answering hotline and hospital calls in the evenings and on weekends; providing emotional support to survivors; discussing available options; offering accompaniment to hospitals and law enforcement; and providing support and information to significant others and family.
Volunteer advocates must complete a 32-hour training, have reliable transportation, commit to the role for at least one year, and attend a minimum of three in-service trainings each year. Volunteers are on-call for 16-hour shifts at least four times per month.
New advocate training consists of six sessions, all held in Rochester. Candidates will be instructed on topics including Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI); counseling; medical advocacy; criminal and non-criminal reporting; domestic violence; and Title IX. Refreshments will be provided, and trainees are encouraged to wear comfortable clothes.
If you’re interested in being a part of RESTORE’s next class of volunteer advocates, please email [email protected].
If you or someone you know is in need of RESTORE’s services, there are 24-hour hotlines available:
Monroe County: 1-585-546-2777
Genesee, Livingston, Orleans, and Wyoming Counties: 1-800-527-1757
RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network): 1-800-656-4673