Support Children with a Movie, Snacks and a Smile! (age 18+) Referral

CARES Northwest’s mission is to stop child abuse and neglect through multidisciplinary prevention, medical evaluation, and ongoing treatment in partnership with our community. Volunteers are an integral aspect of our program. They offer assistance and guidance to children, youth and families during a very difficult time. Volunteers are often praised for their support in the waiting room and engaging with children before and after an evaluation. We are currently looking for volunteers in our new Beaverton location in the Family Peace Center!
The role of the CARES Northwest Child & Family Support Volunteer is to entertain, supervise and keep children company in the waiting area, assist the family with completion of Crime Victim Compensation forms, and share relevant observations of children and families with the evaluation team. We are seeking volunteers who:
• Must enjoy children and relate well to children of all ages
• Knowledge of child development is helpful, but not required
• An understanding of children and families under stress
• An ability to remain calm in crisis situations
• Skills in communication, discretion, compassion
• Emotional stability, including clear boundaries
• The ability to listen and communicate well and unbiased
• A talkative, relaxed and friendly disposition
• Bilingual ability appreciated and helpful
• Willingness and ability to attend trainings by CARES Northwest staff
• Willingness and ability to register with Legacy Health Volunteer Services, including a criminal background check.
• Willingness to complete an Authorization and Notice of Abuse History form, to be submitted to Oregon Department of Human Services Background Check Unit.
Volunteers will gain experience working with children and youth who have experienced trauma. They will learn