Have You Been Thinking About Volunteering?

Hope, Inc. offers volunteer opportunities for individuals and groups. Volunteer positions are available in all of our programs and we offer training to our Volunteers.

Volunteering at a domestic violence shelter requires time, empathy and knowledge about the issue of violence in the home. If you would like to volunteer but would prefer to check out other volunteer options, visit http://www.volunteermatch.com and choose an organization that you feel is right for you!

Steps to take before deciding if volunteering at a shelter is what you want to do:

1. Ask yourself if you have the ability to help people in need without judging them or criticizing them. People at domestic violence shelters are experiencing many stresses, dangers and problems. Their lives may not make sense to you.

2. If you live in Mineral Wells, Texas and would like to Volunteer at Hope, Inc., Contact Margie Cline by calling 940-325-1306 on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, or Saturday between the hours of 7:30a.m. and 2:30p.m.

3. If you live somewhere else, contact your local shelter to volunteer. If you don't know where your local shelter is located, call the Family Violence Prevention Fund at 1-800-799-SAFE or 1-800-799-7233 for information on the shelter nearest you. You could also call your local YWCA, Family Court, Police Station or Social Services Department for information.

4. Talk to the staff at the shelter and schedule an interview. Realize that shelters must be very careful about whom they allow to volunteer. They must first and foremost protect the privacy and safety of the victims.

5. Know that you will be contacting and visiting only the business office of the shelter. The actual shelter location is kept secret.

6. Explain why you want to volunteer, what you would like to do and when you could be available. If you have any special skills, such as nursing, paralegal or counseling, be sure to bring them up.

7. Keep any information you are given about the location of the shelter or safe house a secret. You should not disclose this information to anyone because it could endanger the people staying there.

8. Be sincere when talking about your desire to volunteer. The staff must believe in you and trust you to let you volunteer.

Warning: Be aware that in volunteering you may encounter situations that surprise or shock you. You may see evidence of physical or emotional violence and deal with people who are depressed, frightened or ill.