Lobby position

Location: WINGS Domestic Violence Safe Houses, which are in an undisclosed location in the Northwest Suburban area and Midway Airport area.

Time: Most volunteers come once a week for a 3- 4 hour shift between 8am and 7pm weekly. Occasionally, some other timeslots may be available. Additional time is required in the beginning for training.

Commitment: Requires willingness to commit to volunteer for at least three (3) hours a week for at least one (1) year.

Additional Requirements:

• Completion of the 40 Hour Domestic Violence Training

The class is usually offered three (3) times a year.)

• Any personal experience with domestic violence should be more than two (2) years prior to applying for this volunteer opportunity.
• A willingness to keep the location confidential.

Description:

• Volunteers also greet staff, other volunteers, and service providers who come to the door and maintain overall operation of the Safe House.
• Volunteers also interact with clients as they come in and out and by providing basic services during their stay.

This may be a good fit for you if:

• You enjoy helping people find a way out of difficult situations.
• You are looking for a volunteer opportunity that provides direct service to our clients.
• You are a good listener and able to give empathy and options without giving advice.
• You are able to stay calm, even when others become upset or emotional.
• You are able to listen to a caller’s story and from it, accurately determine whether a person is appropriate for our services or would be better helped by a referral.
• You are committed to providing a safe, non-judging environment where you are willing to support people in their choices, even choices you may not agree with (example: a woman choosing to return to her abuser.)
• You feel comfortable working with people in a diverse environment in regards to social-economic status, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and religion.
• You are comfortable with varying levels of activity. (Sometimes the phone is very busy, other times it can be very slow.)
• The environment can be active which makes this a great opportunity for those who can multi-tasks and are not sensitive to noise.