Welcome to the 2023 October issue of Volunteer Voices, a monthly newsletter for current and potential Domestic and Sexual Violence Services (DSVS) volunteers.
In this Issue:
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My name is Claudia Bejarano. I am the new intake coordinator with DSVS Clinical Services. I help support both the Adapt and Counseling programs by serving as a liaison between community members and counselors. Some of my duties include providing program information, managing client referrals, managing client waitlists, screening clients for services, scheduling clients for intake appointments, and providing clients with emotional support and community resources when needed.
My passion for working with survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking, stalking, and sexual violence started when I was completing an internship with Artemis House in 2017. There, I had the opportunity to learn about the dynamics of abuse and work closely with survivors through their healing journeys. After completing my internship, I accepted a part-time position with the agency as a residential coordinator. In 2021, I accepted a position with the City of Alexandria Domestic Violence Program as a Family Service Specialist. There I had the opportunity to grow my skillset as a community and court advocate and engage in youth prevention services.
To me, volunteers are crucial to our organization because they extend the organization’s reach and amplify our ability to provide essential services and resources to survivors. Volunteers help bridge the gaps with their unique skillsets, dedication, and passion. I admire volunteers’ unwavering commitment to raise awareness, drive for societal change, and appreciate the fresh perspectives and ideas they bring to help improve service delivery.
Claudia Bejarano
Intake Coordinator
Clinical Services
The most powerful tool in our self-care toolbox is caring for others. We just need to expand our definition of self-care. Creating a healthy self-care routine includes making time to care for others. Learn more about this practice.
Don’t miss the Venture into Volunteering Fair on the lower level of the Springfield Town Center Sunday, Oct. 15, 2023, Noon-4 p.m. Representatives from county and nonprofit organizations will be there to share information about a wide variety of volunteer opportunities throughout the region. DSVS will be there, and we would love to say, “Hi,” and answer any questions you may have. Please tell others about this event. This fair will take place in conjunction with the Beacon 50+ Expo, which will be located on the upper level. There will be a wide array of information on local resources, as well as an opportunity to get health screenings, flu shots, and vaccines. Both events are free and there will be giveaways and door prizes.
Marica Phipps, founder of Battered Not Broken, Inc., is a survivor of domestic abuse. Through her experience, her faith and patience were tested many times as she navigated through layers of the judicial system; she overcame her internal struggles and supported the healing process of her children’s journeys. Through this TED Talk, she addresses the societal perception that abuse is a random, uncontrolled act where the person has no control over their violent behavior. Trigger warning: Some images are graphic.
“Since you get more joy out of giving joy to others, you should put a good deal of thought into the happiness that you are able to give.” – Eleanor Roosevelt
Each newsletter will include this section to help share reviews, spotlight the people who support Domestic and Sexual Violence Services, recognize birthdays and list upcoming trainings and meetings.
The Healthy Youth Prevention Education (HYPE) project is a youth-focused, 8-session curriculum that teaches participants about intimate partner violence and sexual assault prevention. Through hands-on activities, multimedia, role-play exercises and facilitated discussions, teens will have opportunities to examine various elements of relationships and develop skills to identify and replicate healthy dynamics in interpersonal interactions. Topics are also available as standalone workshops. Learn more about the HYPE Project.
Meet Maria Sayrs, Hotline Volunteer
As summer vacation drew to a close, DSVS volunteers helped get kids ready for the new school year at several back-to-school events around the county. In this photo, volunteers Rizwann Groover and Seth Woehrle table at the Lorton event.