What is a Volunteer Victim Advocate? Published April 7, 2015 By Lt. Col. Dawn Crews-Seams 512th Operations Group executive officer DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. -- A quick internet search shows a legal definition of the term victim advocate "according to 42 USCS § 13925, the term "victim advocate" means a person, whether paid or serving as a volunteer, who provides services to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, or dating violence under the auspices or supervision of a victim services program." So, we know what a volunteer advocate is, but what do they do and why do they do it? Volunteer Victim Advocates (VAs) provide immediate and ongoing support to victims by providing resources and information. VAs support victims by explaining confidentiality reporting options, determining victim's immediate needs, encouraging them to seek medical attention and/or forensic rape exam (they will accompany victim to medical facility if appropriate), explaining options regarding resources, medical care and support systems and notifying the installation Sexual Assault Response Coordinator of the incident. VAs also support victims by providing information so they are aware of available options, accompanying victims to appointments as appropriate until the victim indicates that they no longer need or require the support. VAs may also assist victims by providing referral information to collateral victims such as family members, co-workers and friends. Now, we know what VAs are and what they do; why do they do it? As a VA, I can only speak for myself; throughout all the jobs I've had during my Air Force career; regardless of duty title, the resounding theme has been caring for Airmen. I know I can't turn back time and undo what has happened to the victim, I can however, be there to provide support, assurance and information so that they know what their options are, that medical care is available and what resources can help them begin their journey to recovery. Most importantly, I can assure them that they are not alone and that someone cares. I do it because I truly care about our Airmen and want to make sure that if anyone is sexually assaulted there is someone to support and help them. In addition to being a wingman to my Air Force brethren, I am also a daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, friend and co-worker; if anyone I care about were sexually assaulted, I would want them to have the help and support of a caring, compassionate victim advocate to help them navigate through the challenges of their recovery.