Last year, 1,644 volunteers assisted SafeHaven in providing vital services to hundreds of women and children seeking refuge from domestic violence. As the number of domestic violence victims continues to increase, volunteers play an essential part in helping victims live free from violence. Volunteers can serve in a variety of ways including assisting with the Children’s Program, FUN Group, Hotline and Community Education.
To participate, contact Krista Moffett at kmoffett@safehaventc.org or 817-535-6462, ext. 101.
Volunteer Opportunities
Hotline
Our 24-Hour Hotline is the primary means of contact for victims of abuse and others needing information about the services of SafeHaven. Callers are donors, families inquiring about help, or victims in crisis. In addition to answering hotline calls, volunteers assist with distributing needed supplies to residents. Last year, SafeHaven Hotline Advocates answered over 41,000 calls. Volunteers will answer Hotline calls, assist callers with safety planning, accessing shelter or other services and make community referrals.
Shelter/residential assistant
Answer incoming calls, offer referrals, complete forms, assist shelter clients with daily needs.
Children’s Programs
The key to breaking the cycle of domestic violence begins with children. Environments where domestic violence exists are hostile, which can have devastating emotional and physical outcomes on children. These children display emotional and behavioral problems such as withdrawal, low-self esteem, nightmares, and aggression. Studies show that up to 40% of violent juvenile offenders witnessed domestic violence in their homes (National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 2005). By intervening with these young children, providing them with a safe place to stay, offering them a positive environment to express their feelings, and providing them with the necessary tools they need, trust and self-esteem can be rebuilt. With positive influences in the lives of children; they are better equipped to make healthy decisions in the future. You can make a difference in the lives of these children through your generous gift of time. Volunteers in the childrens' programs can:
- Assist with infant and toddler care during program meetings for mothers. Activities include feeding, rocking, and playing age appropriate games.
- Guide pre-schoolers in activities, reading stories, art projects, outside play and support groups.
- Help plan and involve children ages 6-17 in recreational activities, art projects and crafts.
SafeResponse
SafeResponse is a 24 hour, 365 days a week crisis response team. SafeResponders are called to police departments and hospitals when victimcomes in for protection or treatment. SafeResponders offer information about victims options at the time of crisis. As a SafeResponse volunteer you are participating in a critical program that links victims to vital resources at a time when they need it most. While at the hospital or police department volunteers are providing advocacy for clients when they need a strong support system. The SafeResponse volunteer can be there to listen, conduct a safety plan, provide resources and information, and arrange for shelter if needed. SafeResponse provides extensive, specialized training and shadowing for every volunteer that participates in this program.
Administrative
Perform clerical duties such as answering phones, filing, copying and greeting guests in the counseling centers and adminisrative offices.
Berry Good Buys
Sort and price donations at our resale shop, Berry Good Buys. Volunteers at the store can also help with running the cash register and greeting guests.
Court accompaniment
Accompany domestic violence victims to their scheduled court appointments. Volunteers will not serve as a legal counsel for victim, but rather support to the victim during the process. (Spanish speaking volunteers are highly needed as many courts do not offer translators.)
Prevention Services
Educate the community by presenting educational programs about bullying, dating or domestic violence and other warning signs of abusive behavior in relationships.
All of the above positions require New Volunteer Orientation/Training a background screen and must be 18 years of age. Upcoming volunteer training dates are:
Wednesday, May 19
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Young Professional Group
SafeHaven's Young Professional Group meets for parties, networking events and volunteer opportunities year-round. Membership is $25 per year for one and $45 for couples. For a membership form, click here. For more information, contact Sarah McClellan-Brandt at smbrandt@safehaventc.org.
