Volunteer with the Family Justice Center

We are looking for young adults who have a passion for working with youth, and who are energetic, patient, committed, encouraging, and fun!

Volunteer HOPE Counselors are young adults age 17-24 who serve as mentors, leaders, and cheerleaders for youth participants in our specialized programming for children exposed to domestic violence. This opportunity to build relationships with children and teens who have experienced trauma is life-changing for both the youth and the volunteers. HOPE Counselors contribute tremendously in our goal to end the cycle of violence by investing in the lives of youth exposed to trauma and forming special connections with them. 

Whether you are interested in volunteering as a mentor throughout the year for the week of Camp HOPE, or both, apply to join us as a HOPE Counselor.

Apply to Volunteer for the week of Camp HOPE or to be a HOPE Counselor

This volunteer position supports victims of crime who are seeking services from the Guilford County Family Justice Center. The Family Justice Center Volunteer Court Navigator Program is designed to:

• Advocate and support clients in court by providing accompaniment, court education, and safety planning
• Inform clients of available Family Justice Center services and resources
• Offer emotional support and connect victims and their loved ones
• Promote the mission of the Family Justice Center within the community

Qualifications:

• Minimum of 18 years of age
• A sincere concern for the well-being of victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, child abuse, and elder abuse
• The ability to interact respectfully with people from diverse economic, educational, and ethnic backgrounds
• Good verbal and written communication skills
• Professional approach and demeanor that set a positive tone and an ability to work collaboratively with other clients, staff, volunteers, and professionals

Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to handle confidential information
• Ability to work as a part of a multidisciplinary team and to communicate effectively with Family Justice Center partners, including law enforcement, court professionals, attorneys, staff, and other social service professionals
• Ability to build rapport and establish a respectful relationship with a client
• Exercise patience, understanding, and compassion with clients and professionals
• Ability to maintain punctual, consistent attendance

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Accompany clients to court proceedings
• Provide case-specific and general information about the criminal court process
• Inform victims of their criminal case status and their rights according to the law
• Connect victims with appropriate resources and referrals at the Family Justice Center
• Establish and maintain appropriate professional boundaries with the victim
• Advocate for the victim and necessary services when appropriate
• Maintain confidentiality of information received from victims and witnesses as required by the Family Justice Center

Requirements:

• Successful completion of application, background check, and screening process.
• Successful completion of the Family Justice Center’s Volunteer Court Navigator Program Training.
  • Training will include a one-day overview of the Volunteer Court Navigator Program and four (4) hours of courtroom observation.
• Commit to provide navigation in criminal district court for a three (3) hour block at least once a month.
• Morning availability is strongly preferred.

The next cohort for training is scheduled for fall 2025. Volunteer applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with interviews scheduled for select applicants during the following timeframes: April through July and November through January.

Apply to Volunteer with the Family Justice Center

People of Courage and Strength

Domestic violence, sexual abuse, and assault impacts all of us, regardless of age, economic status, race, gender, religion, or education. Tens of thousands of women, men, and children are affected in our community. Today, survivors are stopping these violent crimes and making Guilford County safer, one voice at a time. They are taking action and restoring hope. They are using their VOICE and reclaiming their lives. Through outreach and education, people of courage and strength are thriving and bringing about positive social change.

Stronger Together

The VOICES Committee is comprised of survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault who volunteer their time and use their collective voice to help others through advocacy, education, and empowerment. The VOICES Committee works closely with the Guilford County Family Justice Center leadership to ensure Family Justice Center services and outreach efforts meet the needs of survivors and the committee’s mission.

If you are interested in joining the VOICES Committee, please complete the VOICES Committee Interest Form. Volunteer applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with interviews scheduled for select applicants during the following timeframes: April through July and November through January.

Call 336-641-7233 or email fjcinfo@guilfordcountync.gov for more information.

Meet the VOICES Committee Chair

Brenda White

In April 2012, my estranged husband attempted to kill me. I suffered multiple stab wounds and thus spent months navigating a pathway to healing both physically and emotionally. As a survivor, I now use my voice to advocate and motivate others to live free from violence and abuse. I am blessed to be able to share my story in hopes of being inspirational and supportive.

I am native of Blackstone, VA and a proud graduate of Bennett College. I spent my professional career working for the City of Greensboro for over 30 years until I retired because of the injuries I suffered at the hands of a domestic abuser. I am passionate about helping others and serve in a variety of volunteer roles including as a member of the City of Greensboro’s Commission on the Status of Women. I have a beautiful family which includes my daughter, son-in-law, three grandchildren and a host of supportive family and friends.