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For those with a heart for helping others, becoming a unit victim advocate might be the right path.
UVA volunteers and nominees are appointed by each battalion-level commander and trained to perform duties in support of victims of sexual assault. They provide crisis intervention, referrals, and ongoing non-clinical support to sexual assault victims, according to Rosalind Dennis, U.S. Army, Europe Sexual Assault Prevention and Response program manager.
“I love the job – knowing that I’m helping someone out there who needs me,” said Sgt. 1st Class Sherri Lynn Collins, unit victim advocate and NCOIC of the Heidelberg orthopedic clinic. “The satisfaction I get, it’s worth my extra time.”
Advocacy training begins with eight hours of initial instruction, followed by 32 hours of continuing education per year. The annual training covers the victims’ rights, victim dvocate responsibilities and mental and behavioral health considerations in supporting victims, Ms. Dennis said.
UVAs can make a difference, Sergeant Collins said. “As a junior enlisted Soldier I was a victim of sexual assault, and I can tell you that all the resources available for victims now would have made a great difference in my experience for me then,” she said.
Those who meet the criteria, and think they are fit for the job, can be part of this support system.
The unit victim advocate may be an NCO (staff sergeant or higher), officer (first lieutenant/warrant officer or higher) or civilian (GS-9 or higher).
Sergeant Collins said along with the basic eligibility requirements, there are personal characteristics a UVA should have.
“You can’t be the type of person who makes assumptions about people based on stereotypes,” Sergeant Collins said. “You must be compassionate and you must keep an open mind.”
Anyone interested in becoming a unit victim advocate should review the selection criteria to ensure he or she is eligible, and then contact the unit chain of command.
