Get Involved

Opportunities for Involvement with PAVSA:

  • Board of Directors
  • Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs)
  • Volunteers
  • Interns

Board Members

The Program for Aid to Victim’s of Sexual Assault is seeking members to join our Board of Directors.  PAVSA is dedicated to the elimination of sexual violence in Southern St. Louis County through supporting victims, educating the community, and advocating for change. Our core values include free and accessible services that are victim-centered and victim-driven. We are committed to providing support services for victims of sexual violence, educating and building awareness in the community and advocating for social change in the many systems that interact with victims following a sexual assault.

Primary Duties:

  • The board is responsible for the purpose, programs and public accountability of the nonprofit organization.
  • Engage in a biannual strategic planning session.
  • Monitor management
  • Represent the organization to the community and enhance the public image.
  • Attend monthly board meetings, read background information provided each month prior to Board meetings
  • Board meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month from 5:00-6:30
  • Membership on one committee of the Board, either Internal or External committee.

Experience:

The Board needs a diverse set of skills and backgrounds to ensure broad, relevant, diverse ideas and representation. Prior board experience is a plus but not required.

If you are interested in this position, please fill out the application below and contact:
Sara Niemi, Executive Director
Program for Aid to Victims of Sexual Assault
sniemi@pavsa.org
218-726-1442

Application: Board of Directors

Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs)

40-Hour Adolescent/Adult Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner Training

Upcoming SANE Trainings

Volunteer Advocacy

Becoming a Sexual Assault Advocate is a rewarding and meaningful volunteer experience, providing absolutely critical services to victims of sexual assault in our community. Our advocates accompany sexual assault survivors to the hospital or work with individuals who call into our crisis line. It is a great way to gain experience in the field of Human Services. All volunteers are required by state law to attend a 40-hour sexual assault advocacy training. These trainings are generally held once or twice a year.

If you are interested in our next training dates and becoming an advocate please fill out the Volunteer Application and return to Erin Naughton, Volunteer Coordinator. Any questions about this training can be directed to Erin by phone 218-726-1442ext.18 or email enaughton@pavsa.org

Intern

PAVSA offers excellent internship opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students. Interns can be involved in many of our programs based on their interests and availability. These opportunities include, but are not limited to: crisis line and hospital advocacy, support groups, outreach groups, community education, legal advocacy, youth advocacy, and organizing events and awareness campaigns.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Strong commitment to victim/survivors and the cause of PAVSA
  • Proactive attitude in finding work when unassigned and volunteering for duties when opportunities are provided
  • Experience and/or skill working in an administrative position
  • Experience and/or skill working with crisis situations
  • Flexibility in scheduling and attitude.

Before applying please consider:

  • Much of our work is crisis and/or needs based and available 24/7. Needs regarding coverage may be last minute, will require quick action, and will be on evenings/weekends.
  • Because of the nature of our work, some interns may find themselves triggered by the things we encounter. It is important for interns to consider their tolerance of such topics before accepting a position.
  • Sexual trauma history is not considered in acceptance of interns.
  • If you have any concerns about your ability to fulfill any of the above duties it is recommended that you discuss the matter with your school internship supervisors prior to agreeing to the internship.

To Apply:

Please submit a cover letter and resume to Vanessa at vlebens@pavsa.org. In the cover letter, please answer the following questions:

  • What are the requirements for your internship? (ex: hours, timeline)
  • What would you bring to an internship at PAVSA?
  • What would you hope to learn at PAVSA?

Application deadlines for each semester are:

Fall: July 15th
Spring: November 10th
Summer: April 13th

Keep in mind that we have limited spots available, so get your resume and cover letter to us prior to the deadline! All interns are required to complete our state-mandated 40-hour sexual assault training.

Donate

The aid and services which are so integral to PAVSA’s mission are made possible by donors like you. Whether it is your time, money or donation of goods every little bit of help is greatly appreciated! Please visit our Donate or Give MN page.

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