Our volunteer training program is conducted twice annually – in the fall and the spring. For more information, visit the Training page.
To respect physical distancing requirements due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we have adapted our training program to facilitated online sessions using Zoom (at no cost to participants). Please contact admin@cosa-ottawa.ca if you are interested in registering for the volunteer training program.
Volunteer Training – Spring 2021
BASIC TRAINING
- Fundamentals of Circles of Support and Accountability (March 24, 6-8pm)
Presenters: CoSA-Ottawa staff
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- The impetus, history and mandate of CoSA
- Circle functioning, boundaries, confidentiality and limits to confidentiality
- Volunteer roles and expectations, reporting requirements, self-care
- Community collaboration
- Research demonstrating how and why CoSA works
- Video on CoSA
2. Offending Behaviour and Treatment Approach (March 31, 6-8pm)
Presenter: Dr. Geris Serran, Psychologist, Correctional Service of Canada
3. Male Sexual Trauma (April 7, 6-8)
Presenter: Rick Goodwin, Clinical Director, Men & Healing www.menandhealing.ca/
4. Legal Controls for Sex Offenders (April 14, 6-8pm)
Presenter: Det. Ron McCarthy, Ottawa Police Service (High Risk Offender Unit)
- Police Controls (810 Orders, Public Notification, Sex Offender Registry)
- Community Supervision (for those on parole or probation supervision)
5. Assessment and Treatment at the Royal (April 28, 6-8)
Presenter: Heather Tarnai-Feely, Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre
Prior to concluding the Basic Training (sessions #1-5), we will conduct our volunteer screening process including an interview with the staff and a Board member, references will be checked and successful applicants will be asked to obtain a Police Check. Approved volunteers will then proceed to the final session.
6. Practical Applications of CoSA (with active and new, approved volunteers, May 5, 6-8pm)
Facilitated by CoSA-Ottawa Staff
- Discussion and Q&A with experienced volunteers
- A core member’s story
