Volunteer Victim Advocate Training

Nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by a partner – more than 10 million people per year.

Volunteering for just a few hours can have a significant impact on the lives of victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. Registration for our Fall 2025 Volunteer Training is open until September 11, 2025. 

EXPECTATIONS OF VOLUNTEERS:

  • 40 hours of in-person training
  • 40 hours of online certificate completion
  • 10 hours of shadowing a trained advocate and necessary clearances
  • State Police, child abuse and FBI clearances
  • $25 registration fee – WAIVED in recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October
  • 4 hour monthly volunteer commitment once certification is acquired

Register by September 11, 2025

For more information and to register, email Will Smeltzer, YWCA Training and Education Specialist, wsmeltzer@ywcahbg.org

Trainings will take place at the YWCA Greater Harrisburg from 5-9 p.m. (with the exception of the final session noted below) on the following dates:

October 7, 8, 9

October 14, 15, 16

October 22, 23

Saturday, October 25 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.