Whether patients visit the hospital because of an ER visit or routine appointment, more than likely they will be asked the same question, “Do you feel safe at home?” What happens next is why Rose Brooks Center’s hospital-based program is called The Bridge Program™.
The Bridge Program launched in Truman Medical Center over 20 years ago, and has continued to evolve to meet the needs of the community as well as the healthcare system. Today, advocates provide 24/7 on-call support throughout 5 hospital systems, connecting survivors of domestic violence to services, all in the safety of the hospital setting. This “bridge” is created by the training Rose Brooks provides to hospital personnel on how to safely screen patients for domestic violence, and refer them to care.
Can I Volunteer for the Bridge Program?
Yes! The Bridge Program of Rose Brooks Center™ is a vital service providing 24/7 on-call support to hospitals and clinics throughout the metro, but we couldn’t do this work without the assistance of our incredible volunteers.
What Does a Bridge Advocate Volunteer Do?
When a health care provider identifies a victim of intimate partner violence, they make a referral to the Bridge Program. A volunteer advocate is sent to the hospital to respond. While there, advocates provide a number of services that may include: education and support, safety planning, facilitating interactions with polices, filing protection orders, linking to other community resources and assisting in shelter placement, if available. Volunteers provide a critical link in service on nights and weekends.
How to Volunteer
Here at Rose Brooks Center, we love our volunteers and are thankful for each and every one! Each year, Rose Brooks Center counts on over 3,000 to help provide Program and Non-Program support. As a Program volunteer you will have direct contact with the individuals and families of Rose Brooks Center on an ongoing basis. Non-Program opportunities offer you a variety of short-term projects that help support Rose Brooks Center. Non-Program opportunities are ideal if your company, social group, faith community, etc. want to get involved.