(Posted 2023 January)
Meet Roger Sabin, Administrative, Court Accompaniment, and Legislative Analyst Volunteer
How long have you been volunteering? How long have you held this role in Fairfax County? Since July 2022.
Why volunteer? Why volunteer for this specific program? As a retired lawyer, I am looking for an opportunity to put my training to work. My hope is to help victims of abuse navigate the court system, which appealed to me as a good match with the counseling and legal training I have. Talk about how you overcome the most challenging parts of volunteering. At this point, my volunteering has been mostly data entry work for the Domestic Violence Action Center (DVAC). It has been monotonous, but I recognize it as something that needs to be done.
What’s the best part of volunteering? Share your most memorable experience. I don't have a real "memorable experience" yet. The best part of volunteering is working with the dedicated staff.
What has been your favorite training? What did you like about it? What did you learn? Tier One training was eye-opening, and I appreciate the quarterly training events as well. While it's not exactly training, John Crownover's men's book group is a great idea. I'm happy to be a part of it.
What advice do you have for people who may be thinking about becoming a DSVS volunteer? The work is worthwhile, but it's not something you just walk into. Don't be discouraged by the extensive background reviews and training involved before you start volunteering.
What do you wish you could do more of as a volunteer? I am looking forward to helping in the legislative analysis area beginning this month (January) and using my skills to help victims in court and support the court advocates.
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).