Mountain Crisis Services (MCS) is hosting a volunteer training this summer and is looking for more volunteers than ever before.  MCS is anticipating a large budget cut from the state and may have to reduce the level of services we now provides to the community.  For the last 19 years, it has helped countless families through counseling, legal help, shelter, and helping them make connections with other services available in Mariposa County.  

The volunteer training is a 40-hour domestic violence advocate state certified course.  Once participants have completed this training, they will be able to use the unique skills in many different ways, as much or as little as their schedule allows.  They will be able to answer the crisis line, provide legal advocacy, counsel clients, assist in the emergency shelter, assist in the office, facilitate adult and child art groups, and even lead groups. 

MCS is currently determining the best times and dates for people who are interested in attending the volunteer training.  Those interested can call 742-5865 or email alison@mcs4you.org by June 30,  to let MCS know what times and days would work best.  The organization also encourages its community partners to attend this training to expand their understanding of domestic violence.  There are many ways to volunteer.

“The greatest thing about volunteering (for MCS) is that it makes me feel that I have made a difference.  Even though I only put in a few hours each week, it seems that I have an impact on the victims.  This is a great feeling.  It makes me want to do more,” said Donna, a current volunteer.