KENT COUNTY, Mich. — There are a lot of ways you can get involved with your community. The Kent County Sheriff's Office offers several opportunities including their Victim Services Unit and Trail Patrol.
Victim Services Unit
The Victim Services Unit was started by the Michigan Sheriff Association about 30 years ago. Victim Advocates are caring, compassionate and empathetic.
Victim Advocates help people in times of stress and darkness who survive crises or are the victim of crime. Primarily, Victim Advocates help officers with death notifications from homicides, suicides, traffic crashes, drownings and fires.
They provide grief counseling, community resources and comfort to victims and their families. They also educate them on their rights, the justice system and act as a middle man between the victim and the police. Although a tough job, the volunteering opportunity can be rewarding by being there for someone in their darkest hour.
Trail Patrol
Trail Patrol does just that, patrol the trails of Kent County, serving as the eyes and ears of the Kent County Sheriff's Office. They provide assistance to trail users and report any issues. They're trained on how to report suspicious and dangerous activities as well as how to report trail maintenance issues. Trail Patrol volunteers also will provide medical attention to those who need it and help lost children among other duties while out on the trails. Volunteers can choose to walk, ride a bike or even skate during their patrols.
Trail Patrol volunteers set their own schedule and are requested to volunteer at least 2 hours a week. You have to be at least 18 years old, have a friendly demeanor and have your own reliable transportation. You will also need to undergo a criminal history background check, have the ability to be courteous to the public and able and willing to testify in court if necessary.
There are many other opportunities for volunteering for the Kent County Sheriff's Office.
For more information on how to get involved with the Kent County Sheriff's Office, contact Sandi Jones at sandi.jones@kentcountymi.gov or (616) 632-6221.
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