In this edition of the "Helpers" series, we look at Victim Services of Nipissing District (VSND).
VSND was established in 1997 and began a 24hour service in 1998. iTis a non-profit, charitable organization that provides short-term crisis support to victims of crime and tragic circumstances.
Kathleen Jodouin is the group's Executive Director.
She says volunteers are truly the backbone or VSND, explaining, "VSND has 20 volunteers on its team including five Team Leads who assist in dispatching volunteers to after-hours calls. Volunteers must complete an interview, reference process and 40 hours of online training. Volunteers are paired up in teams of two to respond to calls and a Team Lead is available to provide assistance and support. We accept volunteers who are 19 years or older from all genders and backgrounds. VSND seeks volunteers who are empathetic, non-judgemental and have an understanding of victimization."
Jodouin says her team is made up of special people, with a strong commitment to helping others, and who understand that they will work in some pretty serious or shocking situations.
"VSND’s top five calls for service are intimate partner violence, sudden deaths, sexual violence, human trafficking, and assaults. Intimate partner violence is the number one call for service," she adds.
"We provide emotional and practical support to individuals and families on what is often one of their hardest, if not the worst day of their lives. By offering safety planning, triaging basic needs, completing a needs assessment and referring to community agencies, we strive to reduce the impact of victimization and trauma," she says.
They also utilize a support dog to help people dealing with Trauma. The K9 support dog is named Chewie.
The group is the sole provider of this type of service in the community.
"VSND is the only program available 24/7, 365 days a year to provide immediate support to victims of crime and tragic circumstances regardless of their gender, age or background. VSND is a system navigator assisting victims through, not only the criminal justice system but their healing journey connecting them to community supports," explains Jodouin.
While the work is very serious in nature, her volunteers know that ultimately what they do can make someone's life better, adding, "Our volunteers comment that while calls can be difficult in nature there is the reward of knowing that they are helping a fellow community member. They are proud they are available to provide comfort to a neighbour during a difficult time."
They're currently seeking new volunteers. Jodouin says if you think you would like to make a difference. you can get more information by calling 705-472-2649 or checking out the group online at vsnd.ca anytime.
This is one of a series of good news articles in the "Helpers" series, covering people or groups who make things better in our community. To suggest a person, volunteer, group or an organization contact Mike Anthony at [email protected]
