Family Crisis Services, a nonprofit agency that serves victims of crime, is in need of volunteers.

FCS assists children and adults and offers an array of services to them including therapy, victim advocacy and a 24 hour crisis hotline. All services are free of charge.

According to a press release from the agency, they’re looking for “caring, compassionate, responsible and reliable volunteers.” Said volunteers may help with the hotline, work at community events or provide child supervision.

A volunteer training session will be held on Sept. 12 through the 14th from 5 to 8 p.m and pre-registration is required for the event. Those interested in volunteering must be 18 years or older. They must also submit a completed application that includes three references, undergo a background check and complete “comprehensive training.”

During the training session, volunteer candidates will learn more about FCS and its services, the psychological aspects of sexual assault, domestic violence and the investigation of child abuse.

Volunteers will also learn how to handle crisis calls which can include potential suicide calls.

In addition to Lafayette County, FCS also serves Coahoma, Marshall, Panola, Quitman, Tallahatchie, Tate, Tunica and Yalobusha counties.

“From the beginning, volunteers have been the backbone of our agency and provide support in many areas,” said Buffie Yarbrough, the volunteer coordinator for FCS. “They give relief to the staff by answering calls to our 24-hour crisis line outside of regular business hours. Volunteers provide hospital accompaniment to sexual assault victims, greet agency clients and visitors and assist the staff with numerous administrative tasks.”

Those interested in volunteering should contact Yarbrough at buffie.fcs@gmail.com. Or ccall 662-234-9929.