(Posted 2021 October)
Meet David Banks, Hotline Volunteer!
How long have you been volunteering? How long have you held this role in Fairfax County?
Ten years.
Why volunteer? Why volunteer for this specific program?
To aid in keeping women, children and men safe from violence and sexual assault in our community.
Talk about how you overcome the most challenging parts of volunteering.
Listening to the stories of survivors’ previous experiences can be somewhat challenging at times. It helps to hear the hope in their voices by the end of the call, as well as hearing them expressing gratitude for the resources, time on the phone, etc.
What is the best part of volunteering? Share your most memorable experience.
Hearing about a mature woman who was courageous enough to leave her long-term marriage to a local minister. The best part is knowing we have provided affirming and accurate information to callers who may have had incorrect information and felt badly about themselves as a result of the information they had prior to the call.
What has been your favorite training? What did you like about it? What did you learn?
Human trafficking was my favorite training. The data shared about the prevalence in our area was shocking.
What advice do you have for people who may be thinking about becoming a DSVS volunteer?
The variety of calls we get on the hotline will not leave you bored. Also, don’t be afraid to make mistakes. You will, but DSVS staff and other volunteers will be here to help you grow and learn to make less mistakes over time.
What do you wish you could do more of as a volunteer?
Interact with and support other volunteers in the variety of forums DSVS staff provide.
This article posting is part of the Domestic and Sexual Violence Services' Volunteer Voices monthly newsletter for current and potential volunteers. If you're not already a volunteer, learn how to get involved. Find out about upcoming trainings, volunteer trainings, happenings around the DSVS office and information about articles, books, media recommendations and more.
Learn more about the Domestic and Sexual Violence Services (DSVS).