Victim Assistance Training Online (VAT Online) - A FREE Program

The Office for Victims of Crime - Training and Technical Assistance Center has a free online training program for those wanting to learn basic advocacy skills. This is primarily for advocates already in a position for an organization, however, it is not necessary at this time.

VAT Online is a basic victim advocacy web-based training program that offers victim services providers and allied professionals the opportunity to acquire the basic skills and knowledge they need to better assist victims of crime. Specific information is also provided to meet the needs of target populations.

When registering, when asked what organization you are with - just input your name again, and that will suffice. You will receive your login and password immediately in your email. Login and your on your way.

This course even offers printable certificates at the completion of the course.

Here is the link: VAT Online

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WHAT IS AN ADVOCATE?

A victim advocate is a person who provides support, advocacy, information and referral services
to those victimized by crime, those suspected of being victims of crimes or family members of a
crime victim. The victim advocate could also provide services to neighborhoods where a crime
has occurred and may provide services to friends, co-workers, classmates or extended family
members of victims.

A victim advocate may be a paid staff member or a volunteer. A victim advocate may be
located within:

• A dedicated agency or program such as a law enforcement agency, prosecutor’s office,
  municipal law director’s office, court program or may be member of an independent
  program that contracts with any of these organizations.
• A community-based agency or program such as a rape crisis center, domestic violence
  
  shelter, child advocacy center, mental health/social services agency or an independent program that contracts with any of these community-based agencies.

A victim advocate may also be known as a victim assistance professional, victim services
provider, victim services specialist or other similar titles.

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