Survivors Advocacy Team (SAT)
What is the Survivors Advocacy Team?
Survivor Advocacy Team (SAT) members provide compassionate, supportive assistance to survivors of domestic and sexual violence during some of the most difficult moments following an incident of violence. SAT members meet and accompany survivors to Denton County hospitals for a forensic examination (SANE) or to local law enforcement agencies for follow-up interviews.
Trained SAT members are contacted through the Denton County Friends of the Family crisis line when a survivor is transported, brought, or presents to a hospital and requests a SANE examination, or when law enforcement requests an advocate to be present during an interview.
The SAT’s most important role is to provide survivors and their families with compassionate support, a listening ear, and information about their options. SAT members can also provide information about the free services available through Denton County Friends of the Family, including counseling, advocacy, case management, and assistance with Crime Victims’ Compensation (CVC). SAT members are there to help survivors feel supported, informed, and empowered as they navigate their next steps.
MAKE A DIFFERENCE AS A SAT VOLUNTEER.
Becoming a SAT Volunteer
Our Survivors’ Advocacy Team (SAT) is powered by dedicated community volunteers who provide critical support to survivors of sexual assault.
Because of the sensitive nature of this work and training requirements established by the Office of the Attorney General, all SAT volunteers must complete a comprehensive 40-hour training program before serving on the team.
Training is completed over four weeks, primarily during evening sessions. The first and final training sessions are held in person at our Outreach Office, with the remaining sessions conducted virtually via Zoom.
The full four-week schedule is one training program. Volunteers must attend and complete all required sessions to be eligible to serve as a SAT volunteer.
This training prepares volunteers with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to provide compassionate, trauma-informed support to survivors when they need it most.
Volunteering with the Survivors’ Advocacy Team (SAT) is a meaningful way to make a direct difference in the lives of survivors while gaining valuable experience in a nonprofit, client-focused environment.
SAT volunteers learn about the dynamics of relationship violence and sexual assault while developing practical skills in trauma-informed advocacy and survivor support. You’ll serve in a caring, professional environment with support from experienced staff and fellow volunteers.
For those interested in nonprofit work, social services, advocacy, criminal justice, counseling, or other helping professions, SAT provides valuable hands-on experience and an opportunity to build skills that can strengthen your resume.
SAT is designed to work around your schedule. Volunteer shifts are flexible and operate on an on-call basis, allowing you to give your time while making a meaningful impact in your community.
For more information, please contact Lily Isham, at lisham@dcfof.org