Volunteer Advocates for YWCA West Central Michigan's Nurse Examiner Program

Volunteer Advocates walk alongside survivors who come to the YWCA for forensic medical exams due to sexual assault and/or domestic violence. These exams are scheduled on an on-call basis and take place during evenings, weekends, and holidays. Advocates support survivors during the exam process, engage in safety planning, and offer resources as needed.

Training is provided and is partially self-directed through online modules, and also involves shadowing an experienced Advocate to ensure you feel comfortable when you begin taking shifts.

Being a Volunteer Advocate allows you to serve your community by showing up for people on their worst days. Your Advocacy helps survivors start their path to healing after experiencing sexual assault and/or domestic violence. For those studying social work, psychiatry, nursing, or medical care, Volunteer Advocacy offers an incredible opportunity to gain experience working with people in crisis.

Contact Lisa Meengs at
LMEENGS@YWCAWCMI.ORG OR (616) 840-2362 for more information or visit
WWW.YWCAWCMI.ORG