Donate Time

Last year, 1,644 volunteers assisted SafeHaven in providing vital services to hundreds of women and children seeking refuge from domestic violence.  As the number of domestic violence victims continues to increase, volunteers play an essential part in helping victims live free from violence.  Volunteers can serve in a variety of ways including assisting with the Children’s Program, FUN Group, Hotline and Community Education. 

 Volunteer Opportunities

Shelter Hotline

Our 24-Hour Hotline is the primary means of contact for victims of abuse and others needing information about the services of SafeHaven.  Callers are donation inquiries, families inquiring about help, or victims in crisis.  The hotline in operated from the residential facilities.  In addition to answering hotline calls, volunteers assist with distributing needed supplies to residents.  Staff is available to answer all questions.  Last year, SafeHaven Hotline Advocates answered over 44,000 calls.

Children’s Programs

We believe the key to breaking the cycle of domestic violence begins with the children.  Environments where domestic violence exists are hostile, which can have devastating emotional and physical outcomes on children.  These children display emotional and behavioral problems such as withdrawal, low-self esteem, nightmares, and aggression.  Studies show that up to 40% of violent juvenile offenders witnessed domestic violence in their homes (National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 2005).  By intervening with these young children, providing them with a safe place to stay, offering them a positive environment to express their feelings, and providing them with the necessary tools they need, trust and self-esteem can be rebuilt.  With positive influences in the lives of children; they are better equipped to make healthy decisions in the future.  You can make a difference in the lives of these children through your generous gift of time and energy for as little as two hours a week.

SafeResponse       SafeResponse is a 24 hour, 365 days a week crisis response team. With SafeResponse we are the first responders when a victim is in crisis. We respond at police departments and hospitals when a victim comes in for protection or treatment. As a SafeResponse volunteer you are participating in a critical program that links victims to vital resources at a time when they need it most. While at the hospital or police department volunteers are providing advocacy for clients when they need a strong support system. The SafeResponse volunteer can be there to listen, conduct a safety plan, provide resources and information, and arrange for shelter if needed. SafeResponse provides extensive, specialized training and shadowing for every volunteer that participates in this program.

Daytime Opportunities

Kid’s Pal – Volunteers provide positive and affirming support to children through interaction during planned recreational activities.  These activities specifically focus on developing non-violent relationships, social skills, problem-solving skills, and self-esteem.  Volunteers also provide school-aged children with tutoring. (Daytime and evening hours available)

Computer Club – Computer training for children enables children to gain hands-on educational experience.  Volunteers assist school-age children with beginning computer skills and educational games. (Evening Hours)

Reading Hour/Story Time – Volunteers interact with children by reading aloud to them.   Studies show that reading aloud to children assists in their reading comprehension and overall success in school (Reading in Fundamental, 2006). (Evening Hours)

Saturday Field Trips – Volunteers act as chaperones on field trips to places like the movies, skating rinks and the bowling alley. (Daytime on Saturday)

FUN Group (Family Unite Now)

FUN Group is an eleven-week life skills program for mother and children who are survivors of family violence.  Participants of FUN Group are clients in our transitional living program.  The goal of the curriculum is to provide skills for strengthening family relationships.  As part of the group interaction, community volunteers provide dinner with families.  Volunteers facilitate an 11-week program per semester (March–May and September-November) for children.  Age appropriate curriculum is provided.  Children are divided into age groups.  Mothers meet together on the same project.

Sueños Sin Límites (Dreams without Limits)

Our bilingual outreach program provides a variety of services to Latina battered women and their children.  Bilingual volunteers are needed to assist staff with this program.

Children Support Group Assistant – Help Latino children who have experienced domestic violence.  Set up materials and games, dispense snack and drinks, assist children with activities.

Community Educator – Be a important part of educating the Latino population about SafeHaven services.  Responsible for setting up provided resource materials at educational and social services fairs in Tarrant County.

Translator – Translate brochures, administrative forms, children’s educational materials, etc. (This work can be done at home).

Court Accompaniment

Court accompaniment provides court accompaniment for clients as they obtain protective orders, divorce, etc.  Volunteers offer support and encouragement to clients, as they wait at the courthouse.  Must be 21 years old.  Observation of staff accompanying clients to court is in addition to specialized training.  Volunteer meets client at the courthouse.

Community Education

Through education, the hope is for the community to become sensitive to the trauma and conflict domestic violence victims endure and to become advocates for change.  Community Education volunteers should have good communication skills and an interest in public speaking.  Volunteers are needed for community speeches, presentations and resource fairs.

 If you are interested in assisting SafeHaven reduce domestic violence, contact one of our Community Resources Coordinators:

Arlington—Geri Medlin at 817-548-0583 ext. 226

Fort Worth—Valerie Salter at 817-535-6464 ext. 246 

Upcoming Volunteer Training Dates

• Donate Financially

• Donate Time

• Donate Items

• Shop for SafeHaven

    24 Hour Hotline

    1-877-701-7233

    Arlington Resource

    Center

    817-548-0583

    Ft. Worth Counseling

    Center

    817-536-5496

    SafeHaven

    Administration

    817-535-6462

SafeHaven Mailing Address

6815 Manhattan Blvd.

Suite 105

Fort Worth, Texas 76120