Training Volunteers
Many a novice Good Samaritan wonders why a volunteer who plans to repair doors or windows broken by burglars needs training in victim issues or communication techniques. That question is soon answered when the volunteer comes face to face with a distraught and vulnerable crime victim in a time of crisis. The fear, powerlessness, and loss of security felt by victims are often a far greater problem than material loss or damage. Volunteers must learn how to listen well and deal with strong emotions so they can offer the appropriate services, provide information on the justice system, or refer a victim to another community agency or organization for additional help.
Good Samaritans on a crime scene may encounter diverse victim needs. In the past, volunteers have helped a lonely, older woman with a disability find a nursing home; obtained a window air conditioner for a youngster recovering from a random shooting at a community swimming pool; found shelter for a victim of domestic violence; and helped feed children left orphaned by a murder-suicide.
By understanding the dynamics of victimization and stress and by practicing effective communication, volunteers add important tools to the hammers, nails, and locksets they carry to a crime scene.