Safe House Hostess - Suburban location

TITLE: Safe House Hostess

STAFF PARTNER: House Advocate

GOAL: To set a positive, supportive and nurturing environment in the Safe House by assisting the clients with daily tasks, setting out a prepared meal, and promoting constructive conversations.

LOCATION: WINGS Domestic Violence Metro Safe House is in an undisclosed location in the Northwest Suburban area.

TIME: Most volunteers cover one or two meal shifts a week. The lunch shift is Monday – Friday from 11:30 to 2pm and the dinner shift is Monday – Friday from 4:00-6:00pm. Occasionally, some other timeslots may be available based on the needs at the house.

COMMITMENT: Requires willingness to commit to a weekly shift for at least one (1) year. Advance notice is requested in the event of a cancellation so we can schedule a substitute.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Completion of the 40 Hour Domestic Violence Training (provided by WINGS 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 commitment to keeping the location confidential.

DESCRIPTION:

The WINGS domestic violence Safe House has capacity for up to 45 women and children a night. In addition to shelter, we provide counseling, case management, referrals, career services, and meals.

Hostess will assist in this effort by warming up, setting out and putting away a previously prepared lunch for anyone in the house.

Hostess volunteers are encouraged to eat with the residents and to promote constructive and friendly conversations with and between the residents who are there.

Volunteers also help the clients with their daily tasks, including checking and signing off on the chore chart, filling requests for needed items such as diapers or laundry detergent from our supply closet, etc.

Volunteers also promote constructive conversation and a positive environment by lending a listening ear to someone who wants to talk, engaging more hesitant residents in conversation to help them feel welcomed and comfortable, even suggesting or facilitating simple activities (such as a card game or new toy) to women or mothers trying to entertain children.

THIS MAY BE A GOOD FIT FOR YOU IF:

• You are looking for a volunteer opportunity that provides direct service to clients.
• You are able to lift about 30 lbs.
• You are a good listener and able to give empathy and options without giving advice.
• You are able to say calm, even when others become upset or emotional.
• You have strong boundaries and are able to demonstrate those to others.
• You are willing to support women in their choices; even choices you may not agree with.
• 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 house is very full and busy. Other times the residents spend much of their time away.)