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By Stan Ashbee
Westwind Weekly News
Lethbridge Corridor Victim Services (LCVS) is committed to communities. The non-profit organization serves Lethbridge rural and the Coaldale, Raymond, Milk River and Picture Butte RCMP detachments.
LCVS is selling tickets for the organization’s upcoming Great Ball Drop on July 12 at the Hell’s Creek Golf and Foot Ball Course at 1 p.m. Tickets are $10 with 1,000 tickets printed.
“A helicopter is going to come in and drop 1,000 balls and the ball closest or in the hole wins,” said Adonus Arlett, LCVS program manager. The winner will be awarded a cash prize. There is also a call-out for golfers for the event.
Arlett noted LCVS is always looking for volunteers. “We support victims of crime or tragedy and you don’t have to go through the police — you can self-refer. Call 403-329-5042 to find out more.
Caring, dedicated and mature people are needed to provide front-line support, information and referrals to victims, families and others affected by crime or tragedy. LCVS is looking for volunteers who share a genuine desire to help others in a time of crisis and who have strong communication skills including the need to maintain confidentiality.
Front-line volunteers, referred to as Advocates, are trained in many areas including victim rights, crisis intervention, communication, police procedure, court orientation and Solicitor General Programs. Fully-trained Advocates receive Solicitor General Certification through e-learning and face-to-face training opportunities.
This service, providing 24-hour assistance, is delivered by responding to crisis calls received by the RCMP. Advocates work closely with the RCMP and require a high level of security clearance. The role of LCVS is to alleviate the impact of crime/tragedy on its victims. At the time of the incident, volunteers provide a listening ear, comfort and reassurance by phone or in-person — in the victim’s home or at the hospital.
In cases where court appearance is necessary, LCVS contacts the witness/victim to offer information on court procedures and upcoming court dates. Volunteers are also available to accompany the victim to court. LCVS provides resource material and information on Solicitor General Programs available to victims of crime, such as Financial Benefits, Victim Impact Statement and Requesting Restitution Programs. When victims want information about their case, LCVS will liaise with those handling the police file to promptly answer questions.
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