(Posted 2023 March)
Meet Alaina Archie, Hotline Volunteer
How long have you been volunteering? How long have you held this role in Fairfax County?
I’ve been an avid volunteer for Fairfax County since September 2021. I began volunteering for DSVS in May 2022.
Why volunteer? Why volunteer for this specific program?
I volunteer because I enjoy making a difference in other people’s lives and it overall just makes me feel good. It’s also a beneficial way to gain unique skills and experiences. What drew me to volunteer with DSVS was the opportunity to work in the social services field and I felt this opportunity would be a great introduction. DSVS is a great opportunity to work with diverse groups and high-risk populations. I’m able to make a meaningful impact when I’m working on the Hotline.
Talk about how you overcame the most challenging parts of volunteering.
The most challenging parts of volunteering for me would be worrying if I’ve done enough. Once you finish your call, you aren’t able to double check on how they’re doing, if they continued or reached out to the services you provided, or just know that they are OK.
I would say the hardest part is not knowing what happens when that call ends. I like to remind myself that regardless of what happens next, the caller was shown true compassion and validated. No matter what, someone heard their story and that is always going to be a step in the right direction.
What’s the best part of volunteering? Share your most memorable experience.
The best part of volunteering is using your spare time to make a difference. Volunteering has allowed me to connect with my community and help make it better. I would say every call is memorable in its own way. Just hearing about the tough things some are going through and being able to listen and guide them to assistance makes my time as a Hotline counselor memorable.
What has been your favorite training? What did you like about it? What did you learn?
My favorite training was the Tier One training. It was really interesting to learn about the different DSVS services to which we commonly refer callers. I loved that we heard from people directly from those organizations. I also enjoyed the “Working with Immigrant Survivors” training because it put in perspective the challenges immigrants face when dealing with systems in America.
What advice do you have for people who may be thinking about becoming a DSVS volunteer?
If you are not sure what role would be best for you, sign up for one of the orientations. There are so many different opportunities within DSVS that could fit with your interests. Prior to the orientation I was interested in the admin role, but after learning more about being a Hotline counselor I decided that was the best route for me. The staff is very team oriented and will be supportive with whatever role you choose.
What do you wish you could do more of as a volunteer?
I wish there were more group activities involving all DSVS volunteers. Because I do the Hotline, I work remotely, so it would be nice to switch things up with an in-person activity or event.
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).