John Teate of Olathe recently celebrated 20 years as a volunteer helping victims of crime.

Through the years, he has spent time with the Victim Assistance Unit at the Johnson County District Attorney’s Office in providing support weekly in all aspects of what the office does in safeguarding victims and their families. As a volunteer, some of his job responsibilities included victim notification, answering telephone inquiries, providing court accompaniment, working with domestic violence victims, and assisting with Protection from Abuse Orders and No Contact Orders.

“As we all know, COVID put a halt to many of our normal routines, but volunteers are still a vital part of what we do,” said Deborah Floyd, volunteer coordinator for the District Attorney’s Office.

Although Teate is no longer volunteering at the District Attorney’s Office, he has continued one of his special assignments remotely as a member of the Property Crime Compensation Fund Board. He was added to the PCCF several years ago and he, along with other board members, evaluates requests for monetary compensation for financial loss due to a crime and recommends award benefits accordingly.

Teate recently was also presented a service award and other recognitions for his years of service by District Attorney Steve Howe.

“John is an amazing person who has helped so many people over these 20 years. Volunteers like him assist victims of crimes who are in need of help during some of their most turbulent times in their life. John is a shining example of why Johnson County is a great place to live,” Howe said.

Floyd agreed.

“It takes a special person to work with victims of crime and John takes this on with a professional and sensitive manner,” she said. “We greatly appreciate his years of service. He is truly an inspiration!”

The District Attorney’s Office always is on the lookout for more volunteers like Teate. Some of the necessary requirements are:

• Minimum six hours per week, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Minimum six-month commitment.
• Proficient in use of computers and technology.
• Ability to work with professionals and the public.
• Commitment to confidentiality.
• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Sensitivity to the needs of others.
• Willingness to commit time on a regular basis.
• Ability to communicate effectively.
• Attention to detail.
• Successfully pass a criminal background check.

If you, too, have a desire to give back to you community and are interested in helping victims of crime, please feel free to contact Volunteer Coordinator Debbie Floyd at 913-715-3029 or debbie.floyd@jocogov.org.