Establishing and maintaining a volunteer victim advocate program to assist victims of domestic violence in the US Army

A descriptive evaluation of a volunteer victim advocacy (VA) program was conducted to assist domestic violence victims on the scene of a domestic violence incident on a 24-hour per day basis at a U.S. Army installation. A total of 87 volunteers contributed data to this evaluation. The VAs conducted on-the-spot client safety planning using risk factor assessment. Additional information was given to the client about post programs and services. VAs were evaluated and monitored through initial, periodic, and exit interviews. They were asked about their training needs, the most difficult situations they confronted, what they did best, and whether the VA program met their personal needs. While the Army supports victim advocacy by regulation, it often does not provide sufficient funds to support the hiring of the necessary staff. Hence, a volunteer program may be the only feasible approach to provide advocacy assistance for abused spouses in the Army above a minimum level. Drawing on the services of trained volunteers allowed the Family Advocacy Program at this installation to accomplish its mandated mission. Suggestions for further research in VA programs are presented.