(Posted 2024 April)
Meet Brahma Koodallur, Hospital Accompaniment Support Advocate (HASA) Volunteer
Tell us a little about yourself. What is your professional background?
I’m originally from India and have been a Virginia resident for over 25 years now. I live in Farifax with my wife, 11- and 15-year-old boys, and a 4-year-old dog. I am an engineering manager for a software company and have been working in the software engineering field for over two decades.
How long have you been volunteering? What led to your initial desire to volunteer and serve others?
I've been formally volunteering in various capacities for about 20 years. I was inspired by others I saw making a difference.
What interested you in volunteering with Fairfax County’s Domestic and Sexual Violence Services?
Over the years after hearing several stories of women facing violence and injustice, I’ve felt the need to help out in any way I can. As I was preparing to sign up for volunteering with the county, I wanted to find a way to help those victims and was glad to see the DSVS opportunities come up in the search.
What is the most challenging part of volunteering? How did you overcome this challenge?
Going into HASA, I was worried that considering a vast majority of the survivors who seek its services are female, I would find it difficult to connect with them at a level that would provide them the most compassionate care they deserve. My trainers and some veteran volunteers were very kind to offer advice and alleviate some of those fears, which has helped me a lot. However, in my first couple of accompaniments, I still found those worries weighing me down a bit. Remembering the advice I’d gotten earlier helped me navigate that effectively.
What's the best part of volunteering? Share your most memorable experience.
I greatly appreciate the fulfillment I feel in being able to serve. A most memorable experience was a recent accompaniment in which I was finding it particularly difficult connecting with the survivor. At one point I spontaneously offered a hug to her, and she responded. I hope that helped ease her suffering, even if by a little bit. After that, I think she was more receptive to the help I was trying to offer her.
What has been your favorite training? What did you like about it? What did you learn?
HASA training, which offered a mix of technical explanations of the mental and physical challenges faced by survivors as well as their care providers, the benefits of the different services provided to them, and the actual operational way we go about it. I feel like it prepared me for the accompaniment duties reasonably well.
What are your three greatest strengths? How have you been able to display and use these strengths when serving others?
I am very adaptable, and this usually helps me deal with most situations that come my way. I consciously and continually work on improving my communication skills. I strive to maintain a positive attitude. All of these have come in handy in dealing with the varying needs of volunteer service.
What advice do you have for people who may be thinking about becoming DSVS volunteers?
There is no better time to volunteer than now! If you are hesitant for some reason, approach a current volunteer and talk through your concerns, and they may be able to help you better understand where you can be a good fit.
What do you wish you could do more of as a volunteer?
I wish I could be more involved in the longer-term care for survivors. I also wish I could work on programs that address the root causes of domestic violence. But with the demands of family and my day job, time is a major constraint.
What are some of your hobbies and interests?
I'm passionate about music, particularly playing the guitar, and I've been fortunate to be part of various bands through the years. Nowadays, I aim to ignite that same musical spark with my two boys and their friends, albeit not without challenges. Nevertheless, I remain optimistic! Additionally, I find joy in driving, especially when I'm auto-crossing my car. Sailing is another love of mine, although I don't get to indulge in it as often as I'd like, usually just a couple of times a year.
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).