How can I volunteer at the Domestic Violence Center?

The DVC offers a variety of trained and untrained volunteer positions. We request volunteers who are interested in any of the positions below to attend one of our volunteer orientations.

Trained Volunteer Positions

24-hour Helpline:

The Helpline provides a vital link with the community on a 24-hour basis, 365 days a year. Volunteers are provided with a comprehensive training that includes information on the services we provide, referrals to other community agencies, crisis intervention, education on the dynamics of domestic violence, communication skills, and good listening skills.  Helpline volunteers can answer calls from the convenience of their own homes and generally work 4-hour shifts.
Must be 18 years of age.

Legal Advocacy Project:

Volunteers work with our Legal Advocate Coordinator by helping clients petition the courts for protective orders.  Legal Advocates have significantly improved the justice system’s ability to respond to and assist victims of domestic abuse in Howard County.  Special training is offered for this opportunity and no prior legal experience is required.
Must be 18 years of age.

Childcare Assistants:

Help provide much-needed childcare for the children of our clients.  Volunteers are expected to play games, read stories, create art, and help supervise children while their parents attend counseling. Volunteers are needed evenings, Monday-Thursday. 
Must be 16 years of age.

Residential Assistants:

Residential Program Volunteers meet monthly (on the third Saturday of each month) to work on miscellaneous shelter projects. This may include gardening, yard work, painting rooms, cleaning, picking up donations, grocery shopping, or even projects that volunteers propose. This is a great opportunity for volunteers with special talents or skills!
Must be 18 years of age.

Educational Outreach:

Volunteers are assigned on an as needed basis to provide assistance with community outreach opportunities in Howard County. Volunteers will represent the Center at community fairs, high schools, hospitals, and local colleges. Volunteers will promote the agency by speaking about our services and inform others how they can get involved.
Must be 21 years of age.

Throughout the year, the DVC has many one-time volunteer opportunities that do not require training.  Please contact the office to learn more.