(Posted 2026 August)
Meet Laura Faino, Hotline Volunteer
Tell us a little about yourself. What is your professional background?
I grew up and went to college in New York and have lived in the Northern Virginia area ever since, working at different non-profit organizations mostly in policy and grantmaking. As my work became part-time and my kids got older, I started looking for opportunities to volunteer locally.
How long have you been volunteering? What led to your initial desire to volunteer and serve others?
The importance of giving back was instilled at an early age by my family. In high school, I volunteered at a local hospital and with kids with special needs, in college I was a peer counselor and a Big Sister, and after college I tutored kids in D.C. For the past five years, I have been a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) in Fairfax County, advocating for children who have open neglect/abuse cases before the Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court.
What interested you in volunteering with Fairfax County’s Domestic and Sexual Violence Services?
I completed DSVS Tier 1 training to fulfill CASA continuing education requirements. I knew nothing about the landscape of domestic violence services prior to doing Tier 1, and the training was very eye opening. I was motivated to learn more in part because I had come to see that many of the families I was working with as a CASA have also experienced domestic violence. From there, I completed training so I could take on volunteer responsibilities with DSVS.
What is the most challenging part of volunteering? How did you overcome this challenge?
The first few months as a hotline volunteer were very challenging. I felt like the information I needed to recall was vast, and I worried that my novice standing would be glaringly obvious. However, my confidence was bolstered after finding that most callers seemed appreciative not only to receive concrete resources, but also a listening ear and validation.
What’s the best part of volunteering? Share your most memorable experience.
Being in a position to provide immediate relief to people in need via the hotline is very meaningful. I had a caller who was in tears when she called, barely able to speak, but as someone who had previously called the hotline, she knew it was a safe place to turn to for support. I listened, was patient, and gave her time. To be a small part of the amazing systems in place in Fairfax County is very gratifying.
What has been your favorite training? What did you like about it? What did you learn?
I found the suicide prevention training particularly useful. I received training on this topic in college many years ago, and the presentation was a very helpful reminder of how to talk about this difficult subject.
What are your three greatest strengths? How have you been able to display and use these strengths when serving others?
I listen, always strive to be open minded and compassionate, and am dependable.
What advice do you have for people who may be thinking about becoming a DSVS volunteer?
Volunteering with DSVS is a terrific way to learn about needs of your neighbors and give back. I highly recommend it!
What are some of your hobbies and interests?
Summer in Cape Cod, baking and cooking, reading, and time with family and friends.
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).