Muskoka Victim Services is in need of more volunteers.
That’s according to Executive Director Eva Zachary, who says the demand for their services has increased 60 percent since last year, with OPP referrals going up 96 per cent.
She says the dramatic increase in need has become challenging for the organization, as they cannot provide the appropriate support without volunteer crisis responders.
Muskoka Victim Services provides 24/7 support to victims of crime and tragic circumstances. Between their volunteers and case workers they are there to help stabilize and mobilize in the immediate aftermath of an incident or crisis. She adds that their mandate is to provide support on one of the worst days of someone’s life.
According to Zachary, there are a few services available, including 24/7 support through victim crisis assistance Ontario where their volunteers provide emotional and practical support. They also offer longer-term support through their case workers where they do needs and risk assessments and vulnerability screenings to help connect victims with the appropriate support and services.
“If you are a victim of a crime or tragic circumstance either recent or long time ago, all inquiries are welcomed.” says Zachary. “You do not have to be referred from a professional service, or from our first responders, you can also call in yourself and work with one of our volunteers.”
Zachary says everything is confidential and that when someone calls in to Muskoka Victim Services, they will be connected to one of the crisis responders or case workers.
She explains that their volunteers may either provide telephone intervention or be dispatched on scene for one-on-one support, and that no one is sent into any situation without the proper preparation. Volunteers must complete 40 hours of online training and practical in-person training at their office. All new volunteers are paired with an experienced crisis responder.
Bracebridge O.P.P. detachment commander, Inspector Wade Beebe says the support and services provided by Muskoka Victim Services is extremely important to the community.
“The more volunteers that we can get through organizations like Muskoka Victim Services, the more support we can provide victims in a timely manner,” he says.
If you are interested in volunteering, or need support, visit https://muskokavs.ca/ or call 1-844-762-9945
