Volunteer
Volunteers carry red clipboards while they monitor court hearings involving violence against women and children. They record important data and observations on specially designed forms, and WATCH uses this information to make recommendations for how the courts can provide greater safety for women and children.
Opportunities are available in the downtown Minneapolis courts, within walking distance and skyway-connected to the WATCH office. Hear the inspiring message of why Kyle volunteers and donates to WATCH.
We ask for:
- A commitment to ending violence
- Attendance at a six-hour training and continuing education during the year
- Careful observing and note taking
- A one-year commitment; one shift per month.
Volunteers receive:
- A close-up look at how the courts respond to violence against women and children
- Valuable, hand-on experience that translates to everyday life
- An opportunity to give input that results in improvements to the courts
- The chance to meet others that share your passion for justice
- Participation in an organization that is leading the nation in promoting court monitoring
Court is held Monday through Friday. Volunteers may choose either morning shifts from 8 am – noon or afternoon shifts from 1 – 4:30 pm. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old and agree to a criminal background check.
Unpaid internships are available for a semester, during the summer, or for an academic or calendar year. Responsibilities include extensive court monitoring, and may also include research, volunteer coordination, data entry, outreach, and community education. Applicants should have an interest in civil or criminal law, women’s rights, public policy, domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, human rights, or government.
Continuing Education
Stay tuned for announcements regarding our next continuing education event, coming soon!
Get Involved
Volunteer Application
Volunteer Job Description
Intern Application
Intern Job Description
Current volunteers Log-in to view training materials.
Log In
Current volunteers and interns may log-in here.
Watch Briefs
STAY CONNECTED
VOLUNTEER TRAINING
Our next volunteer training is Saturday, February 4th. We always are accepting applications.
Here's a snapshot from our last training.
Contact Mandy Iverson by email or call 612-341-2747 x6 for more information.
- Understanding the courts
- The dynamics of violence
- How WATCH volunteers promote justice and safety
WHAT WATCH VOLUNTEERS SAY
“This has been an enriching and eye-opening experience. The wealth of resources available through this organization is invaluable to our justice system and has greatly complemented my formal education."
"I have found a level of familiarity and comfort with the justice system such that I could help myself or provide informed support to friends if faced with domestic or sexual violence. This sense of personal empowerment has strengthened my confidence in my leadership abilities and inspired me to seek out other opportunities to lead."
"I realized I had as much right as anyone to be in the courtroom, and that has translated into me feeling I have rights in other areas of my life, too."
