(Posted 2025 December)
Meet Anastasia Sadowski, DSVS Hotline Advocate and Volunteer Co-facilitator for the Anger and Domestic Abuse Prevention and Treatment Program (ADAPT) Volunteer
Tell us a little about yourself.
My name is Anastasia, and I have always been passionate about helping people, friends, family, co-workers, and strangers. I am dedicated to spreading kindness in small and large ways in all parts of my life. I am a NACP (National Advocate Credentialing Program) credentialed advocate, currently taking cases to learn more about trauma, its impacts on the mind and body, trauma-informed care, and how to best advocate for and empower survivors with the goal of using this knowledge to be a better volunteer and find a job that allows me to pursue my passion of helping others.
How long have you been volunteering? What led to your initial desire to volunteer and serve others?
In approximately 2024, I broke my hip, which basically left me couch bound for several months. Around the same time, I was learning more about the domestic violence epidemic and its high prevalence in the United States among all sectors of the population. After doing research on volunteer opportunities in the domestic and sexual violence field, Fairfax County’s DSVS appeared to be an impactful program. I heard from a colleague DSVS had great staff, helpful leadership of volunteers, and a commitment to ensuring their volunteers have the resources they need, including training, self-care encouragement, and being available for direct emotional support. After submitting my application and having the interview, I requested to volunteer for the DSVS hotline and to serve as a co-facilitator for the ADAPT program.
What is the most challenging part of volunteering? How did you overcome this challenge?
The most challenging part of volunteering is when I feel like I am not able to do enough to help clients. I have overcome these challenges by reflecting on my responses to clients or how I presented a learning module and analyzed them for areas for improvement. Additionally, I take training to learn more about nationwide resources and continue to learn from the DSVS staff. This process of continuous learning helps me become a more effective and confident volunteer.
What’s the best part of volunteering? Share your most memorable experience.
It was impossible for me to pick just one best part. Through my volunteering many moments and experiences have been deeply meaningful to me. I hope you enjoy reading some of the highlights of my journey.
A year-and-a-half into this journey, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of the complexities of domestic and sexual violence, stalking, and human trafficking the resources available, and—most importantly—how to empower victims to make informed choices that honor where they are in their healing process.
While it can be hard to hear the fear in a hotline caller’s voice, it is amazing to provide support and resources and a listening ear and at the end of the call hear a little hope in the victim’s voice or hear them say they have received helpful information.
It's a beautiful reminder of the power of human connection when a family member, friend, or even a neighbor calls the hotline for information to support someone they care about. It speaks to the strength of community and compassion.
My involvement with the ADAPT program has made me a better, more compassionate person. Watching the growth in clients and their dedication to healing and change is a powerful reminder of the human capacity for growth. Facilitating a learning module and seeing it resonate with the clients brings me genuine joy.
Finally, I would be remiss if I did not emphasize how each and every DSVS staff member and volunteer are welcoming. DSVS is a powerful team with an important goal, and I am honored to play a small role.
What are your three greatest strengths? How have you been able to use these strengths when serving others?
My three greatest strengths are listening, empathy, and the ability to explain complex topics in multiple ways to connect with people from diverse backgrounds.
What advice do you have for people who may be thinking about becoming a DSVS volunteer?
I highly recommend this beautiful opportunity. If you are even considering it, reach out to DSVS. The staff is incredibly responsive and will take the time to answer all your questions. Do not let the heaviness of the subject matter or any self-doubt hold you back. You will receive excellent training and will not be expected to serve a shift alone until you feel properly prepared. The team will ensure you feel confident and supported before your first independent shift.
What are some of your hobbies and interests?
I enjoy reading, gardening, baking, and doing puzzles. These activities bring me peace and joy and are great ways to recharge so I can show up fully for others.
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).