12 years of volunteering
I don't have a 'big' story that's behind my decision
to help women and
children who are victims of domestic violence. I grew up in an
intact family and felt loved and supported. I hadn't experienced
physical abuse in my adult life and until I took part in Gateway's
volunteer orientation I never thought I lived in an emotionally abusive
environment.
In 1993 my work hours changed, which allowed me to
volunteer some of my time as a way to give back to life in appreciation
for the many blessings I had received. I thought of many places
and causes where I could give my time, but until I saw an announcement
in the newspaper about a program at Gatway Shelter for Battered Women,
nothing seemed like the right fit. The minute I saw the article about the
Women's Shelter, I knew it was the place to be. Believing in
nonviolence and that no one should live or work in a violent situation,
I thought this was a perfect place for me to give of my time and energy.
The rest is history -- except that in the process, I discovered that I too had been in an
emotionally abusive environment, without ever recognizing it until that very
moment. When I was in the situation, I knew it wasn't 'right' and
had to get out. After feeling the shock of this truth, it gave me
a great sense of relief to be able to 'name' what I experienced.
My best memory at Gateway was during the preparations for
Christmas. The Shelter would put together big boxes of food and
then give them to the women who were receiving assistance.
One year, I gathered about 10 of my friends and we spent a Saturday
putting together about 100 boxes. It was very labor intensive and
by about 3:00 pm we were getting a bit weary when suddenly the doorbell rang. A
woman stood there with her two children. The counselor had
arranged for her to stop by and receive a box of food and gifts for her
children. We were well rewarded for our labor when the woman
became very teary after receiving the food and gifts. She was so
thankful and told us, "I didn't think we would have a Christmas
this year. Now we will have a good one. Thank you."
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Last Updated ( Saturday, June 09 2007 )
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Volunteer Voices Section 
