Become a crisis line volunteer!

Dodge & Olmsted (D&O) Victim Services is seeking compassionate volunteers to support victims and survivors of sexual assault and other crimes through its 24/7 crisis line. As a crisis line volunteer, you will provide crucial emotional support, referrals, and information to those in need.

“Our crisis line volunteers are the heart of our support network. They make a real difference in the lives of those affected by crime,” said D&O Violence Prevention and Volunteer Coordinator Sarah Palmer.

Volunteer details

Crisis line volunteer shifts are nightly from 5 p.m. to 8 a.m. Day shifts on weekends and holidays run from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Volunteers must be able to take one shift per month. 

Requirements 

All volunteers are required to complete a free, 40-hour sexual assault training program prior to volunteering. Volunteers must pass a background check and live within a 30-minute response time to Mayo Clinic Hospital, Saint Marys Campus in Rochester. 

Upcoming training

• Length: September 16 – October 16, 2024 (10 sessions) 
• Days of training: Mondays and Wednesdays
• Time of training: 5:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. 
• Location: Trainings are in-person at the Olmsted County Government Center located at 151 4th St. SE, Rochester, MN  

How to apply 

Residents 18 years or older interested in becoming crisis line volunteers can apply online. If residents have questions, they can contact Sarah Palmer at 507-328-7271 or sarah.palmer@olmstedcounty.gov.