National Volunteer Month takes place in April and is the month where we recognize and appreciate the efforts of volunteers everywhere. It is important to remember that a small act of kindness can make a world of difference, and every volunteer has an impact. The mission of National Volunteer Month is to acknowledge the impact of volunteers and encourage more people to get involved in their communities.

What are some reasons volunteering helps a person give back to their community? For some, meeting others who are passionate about a cause they believe in can be a rewarding experience, as well as make the experience of volunteering even more enjoyable. According to the Mayo Clinic, volunteering can increase your overall physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Connecting with the community around you through nature, history, or social experiences while volunteering has also been shown to be rewarding. Lastly, volunteering can help a person cultivate skills and learn new information through experiences.

The work volunteers do at HAVEN is so important because they play a key role in fulfilling HAVEN’s mission. Volunteer efforts are vital in all aspects of HAVEN’s organization: client services, development, education, events, outreach, organizational leadership, and shelter management. To become a volunteer at HAVEN, one must complete a 35-hour training that will prepare one for responding to situations they may encounter during their time as a volunteer/client advocate. Volunteers serve as confidential and non-judgmental sources of support for people of all gender identities and ages.

To get a better perspective on what it is like to be a volunteer, here are some responses from volunteer advocate Jenna:

What has been the most rewarding experience for you while working with survivors? The most rewarding experience for me while working with survivors is recognizing that I am often with them during some of the most challenging moments of their lives. Many of our survivors are alone when I arrive at the hospital, and I am deeply thankful for the opportunity to sit with them and offer my support. Even if all I do is hold their hand, it is enough for me to know that I am making a meaningful difference in their lives.

How do you balance your volunteer work with your personal and professional life? I am grateful that HAVEN provides me with the flexibility to choose my shifts. Each month, I review my schedule and select nights that fit well with my personal and professional commitments. There are months when I can contribute more, while other times I need to scale back due to personal reasons. Additionally, I am on the nighttime Emergency Hospital call list for instances when there isn't someone on-call, and I am always happy to step in and help if I am available in town. This balance allows me to continue my volunteer work while managing my other responsibilities effectively.

What advice would you give to someone who is considering becoming a volunteer advocate? I would tell them that becoming a volunteer advocate is one of the most challenging yet rewarding roles you can undertake. It's a tough job, but the impact you make on someone's life is profound and meaningful. I would also emphasize that, although we often work independently, you are never truly alone in this journey. It's important to reach out for help and ask questions whenever needed. The support network is always there to guide and assist you.

Can you share a memorable story or moment that highlights the impact of HAVEN’s work on the community? Some of the hardest calls we handle involve children. I recall one particularly challenging call where I sat in the ER with a mother and her children. The mother was understandably struggling with the situation, and I remember guiding her through what was happening and what to expect moving forward. When it was time to leave the ER and part ways, the mother asked if she could give me a hug as she cried in the parking lot. It was a touching moment that showed her gratitude and reminded me of the significant impact we make in people's lives through our work at HAVEN.

What message would you like to share with the community about the importance of supporting HAVEN's mission? HAVEN is more than just a nonprofit and community resource; it is an essential agency within our communities. The work that HAVEN does changes lives. By providing the resources we share with our communities, we are able to make a significant impact in schools through prevention programs and support survivors as situations arise. HAVEN is as crucial as having a police or fire department, which we often work in partnership with. Supporting HAVEN's mission means supporting a safer, more resilient community for everyone.

          Let’s also get the perspective of D.D, another volunteer at HAVEN.

What inspired you to become a volunteer advocate at HAVEN?

Helping others has been a passion of mine for many years. While researching for a volunteer position, I found HAVEN. After reading about the mission and goals of the organization, I knew it was a great match! Being a survivor myself has also made volunteering that much more rewarding.

What has been the most rewarding experience for you while working with survivors?

Two things come to mind. The first thing I find rewarding is that time during a call when I start to hear relief in a survivor's voice. Once a survivor recognizes that they are not alone and that they are supported. The second is when I hear about success stories of the people we serve. There are huge obstacles to overcome in order to heal and move forward. It feels good to know I am a small part of helping people to succeed.

How do you balance your volunteer work with your personal and professional life?

This one is a bit easier for me than for most volunteers, I suspect. I’m retired and live solo so it’s not difficult for me.

What advice would you give to someone who is considering becoming a volunteer advocate?

I’d suggest asking yourself these three questions:

Do you have a passion for helping others?

Does the mission of helping and advocating for survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, stalking, and human trafficking speak to your heart?

Are you willing to devote a small measure of time each month to make a big difference?

If you answered yes to these three questions, HAVEN would be a great place to volunteer!

 

This month, we are taking the time to thank all our wonderful volunteers and advocates who support HAVEN! If what you read in this blog post is compelling and you wish to become a volunteer at HAVEN, please visit HAVEN’s volunteer webpage and contact us! HAVEN serves all people in their community, including those part of the LGBTQ+ community. HAVEN’s confidential crisis support line (1-603-994-7233) is available 24 hours a day and staffed by trained advocates.