How to Help

For years the Rape Crisis Center has relied on volunteers. Since the RCC early days, volunteers have responded to the Emergency Department to provide emotional support and advocacy to victims and family members of sexual assault.

Direct Service Volunteers

Vital part of the RCC team as these volunteers may be the first point of contact for clients after an assault. Part of their role includes responding to the hospital to assist survivors who have presented to the hospital for medical care after an assault.  They are trained to listen empathetically, provide emotional support, clarifying related information, and advocate for the survivor throughout the entire process which could include providing support while victims go through sexual assault evidence collection and the initial law enforcement interview. In addition, our Direct Service Volunteers can assist RCC staff with support group sessions, answering our crisis line, and court advocacy as needed.

Outreach Volunteers

Opportunities to assist the RCC team with community outreach. Help us engage community members in outreach programs to increase their knowledge of RCC services. Outreach volunteers will be trained in sexual violence 101, what victim blaming can look like, and how to handle a disclosure. Once trained, the volunteers will assist RCC staff in helping at outreach tabling events throughout the year and dropping off informational materials and swag bags throughout the community.

Requirements

Volunteers are required to attend our RCC volunteer training in person on the assigned day and required to successfully complete a criminal background check, drug screen, motor vehicle check, NC Health Care Registry Check, and adhere to the policies and procedures of Coastal Horizons Center, Inc.

Time Commitment

In addition to participating in the full training, our direct service volunteers are asked to schedule a minimum of 4 (6 hour) shifts of on-call time each month and make a commitment to volunteer for at least one year. It is most helpful to utilize our direct service volunteers on Friday, Saturdays, Sundays, and agency holidays; however, volunteer coverage on any day is greatly appreciated. Volunteers have the flexibility to choose their shifts each month to fit their schedules.

Outreach volunteers are NEW to our program! We are planning for outreach volunteers to sign up for shifts at our RCC tabling events throughout the year and share outreach materials in the community continuously. These shifts will be organized monthly and communicated by the RCC staff.

How to Apply

Volunteer Trainings are held twice a year. Our next training will be held on two Saturdays in March 2026.  Thank you for your consideration in joining our team! Complete the Volunteer Interest Form below.

If you have additional questions, contact our volunteer coordinator [email protected] or call the office line at 910-392-7185.