Volunteer
Make a difference by volunteering and supporting victim-survivors in Scott and Carver Counties.
We have a variety of volunteer opportunities for all ages, abilities, and backgrounds.
Hover over each Volunteer Role below to learn more.
The crisis line advocate answers SVA’s Crisis Line during the weekday evening hours. You do not need to be on site for this position; it is done remotely through your cell phone. Our crisis line shifts start at 5pm and go to the following morning at 8:30am. On a typical shift, volunteers may receive anywhere from 0-2 calls. Most volunteers just keep their cell phone up at a louder volume and go about their normal activities when they’re on-call.
Requirements:
Must not be an active client or within 12 months of receiving services from SVA
Must be 21 years or older
Meet OJP/VOCA Background Check guidelines
Completion of online training courses
We are always looking for volunteers to help laminate and prep crisis line posters, scan and shred documents, and other miscellaneous projects around the office. Some projects must be done in office and others can be take home projects.
Requirements:
Must not be an active client or within 12 months of receiving services from SVA
If under 18, parent or guardian signature must be provided on application
Valid driver’s license and proof of insurance required (if transporting SVA materials)
During community events this person would represent SVA and SVA’s mission in support our victims at our table by answering questions or directing where more information can be found within our organization. Greet all who approach our table seeking information. Offer brochures and information. Ask “new” people to sign our email list and/or volunteer list!
Requirements:
Must not be an active client or within 12 months of receiving services from SVA
If under 18, parent or guardian signature must be provided on application
Valid driver’s license and proof of insurance required (if transporting SVA materials)
We are always looking for volunteers who want to stay in the loop about new and special pop up projects we have going on throughout the year! These projects may include donation or promotional material pick up/drop off, tabling event swag prep, maintenance and yard work, packing and moving equipment, etc.
Requirements:
Must not be an active client or within 12 months of receiving services from SVA
If under 18, parent or guardian signature must be provided on application
Valid driver’s license and proof of insurance required (if transporting SVA materials)
The Court Advocate provides accompaniment and emotional support for clients at civil and criminal court hearings for Order for Protections (OFP), Harassment Restraining Orders (HRO), and criminal court proceedings resulting from domestic violence (completion of online course training required). NOTE: You do not need a legal background for this role – this is an emotional support role.
Requirements:
Must not be an active client or within 12 months of receiving services from SVA
Must be 21 years or older
Meet OJP/VOCA Background Check guidelines
Completion of online training courses
Volunteer with Southern Valley Alliance by assisting in the set up and tear down of event materials at community events throughout Scott and Carver Counties. This job may involve lifting 35lbs+. This is a great job for someone who is looking to volunteer but isn’t necessarily interested in community outreach or client engagement
Requirements:
Must not be an active client or within 12 months of receiving services from SVA
If under 18, parent or guardian signature must be provided on application
Valid driver’s license and proof of insurance required (if transporting materials)
Our Support Group Facilitators provide support for clients and structure to Support Group meetings (completion of online course training required). Facilitators are provided training and curriculum to encourage engaging and supportive conversations. We have both virtual and in-person meetings.
Requirements:
Must not be an active client or within 12 months of receiving services from SVA
Must be 21 years or older
Meet OJP/VOCA Background Check guidelines
Completion of online training courses
This position offers a fun, safe, welcoming environment for children while their parent attends our weekly support group (completion of online course training required). The groups are located in Shakopee on Monday evenings 7:00pm – 8:30pm. We ask for a commitment of at least 1 meeting a month.
Requirements:
Must not be an active client or within 12 months of receiving services from SVA
Must be 21 years or older
Meet OJP/VOCA Background Check guidelines
Completion of online training courses
Ready to learn more?
Fill out Volunteer Info Request Form to request more information, and our Volunteer Manager will be in touch with you!
Click here for Court Ordered/Community Service Volunteering
Intern
Student interns work alongside SVA advocates and staff to provide critical services to victims.
Hover over each Intern Role below to learn more.
Download SVA’s internship application and submit the completed application to officemanager@svamn.org to apply.
Current Internship Positions
The Advocacy and Community Outreach Intern works closely with SVA advocates to serve victims of domestic violence through legal advocacy, emotional support, and support groups. After completing SVA training, interns will shadow staff to learn crisis intervention and advocacy skills. Interns will also work with the Community Engagement Coordinator to assist with community events and raise awareness of domestic violence.
The Community Outreach and Development Intern will work closely with the Community Engagement Coordinator and Executive Director. The development team at SVA exists to identify, cultivate, solicit and steward individuals, businesses, and foundations interested in supporting the mission of SVA. The internship will provide substantial experience in nonprofit fundraising and development at a community based social service agency.
The Development Intern will work closely with the Community Engagement Coordinator and Executive Director. The development team at SVA exists to identify, cultivate, solicit and steward individuals, businesses, and foundations interested in supporting the mission of SVA. The internship will provide substantial experience in nonprofit fundraising and development at a community based social service agency.