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Hilary M.

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1 reviews

Review for Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), Washington, DC, USA

Rating: 5 stars  

I'm a volunteer for the Online Hotline and it has been a humbling and rewarding experience. RAINN does great work and offers support to both its users and its volunteers, which has made the experience much less overwhelming than I might have thought. I had previous experience and training with sexual assault response and victim support, but I had never done "direct service" with victims/survivors. The online training & the in-person training were very helpfu, but most importantly, the leaders of the training made it clear that I can call the office for support if I need it. They also have online forums and regular in-person social and training events so volunteers and can connect and share about their work.
I've found the online format to be a great way to reach out to people, as both the person seeking support and I have more time to formulate our thoughts. There are also volunteer supervisors on the hotline at all times if I have something tough to handle with a visitor.
I've been amazed that after each call, I've felt strong, not drained, because the people I'm talking to have moved towards (even if it's one small step), towards safety or healing.

I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...

I have recommended the hotline to a friend in need, and I have provided services.

If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...

Keep recruiting additional hotline volunteers to decrease wait times for visitors. Look for funding to expand the pool of volunteer supervisors so they can provide even more feedback about effective crisis response 'real-time'. While the training I received was adequate for me b/c of my previous trainings, & the supervisors I've worked with have been very present, it might be helpful to have more direct feedback of volunteers' interactions with visitors.

Would you volunteer for this group again?

Definitely

For the time you spent, how much of an impact did you feel your work or activity had?

Life-changing

Did the organization use your time wisely?

Very Well

Would you recommend this group to a friend?

Definitely

When was your last experience with this nonprofit?

2011

Role:  Volunteer & I work on the online sexual assault response hotline, providing short-term support and connecting victims/survivors and their families to appropriate resources for their health, safety, and healing.
 
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