Advice on women's shelter work?

I was wondering if anyone had any ideas, advice, etc. on how I could become a paid volunteer or get a job at a women's shelter? Or if anyone knows of any sort of programs that I could apply for that would put me in that sort of position.


I'm not sure how I would apply to work at a shelter....but I have personal experience in this case and would like to know if anyone has any idea how I could put those skills to work and get a job helping other women. Thanks a lot!Advice on women's shelter work?
my best thought would be call the shelter. but frequently shelters are manned by volunteers. some jobs pay, but others are on a volunteer basis. your best bet would be to call the one near you, and ask if they are hiring and tell them about how you want to help other women and you have experience. etc. Advice on women's shelter work?
sorry none come to mind
If the company your are working for has a paid volunteer program or to find out if it has one, talk to HR or whoever is in charge of this.





As far as how to apply, call the shelter in your area and tell them you'd like to apply. If you're told they are not hiring you can say you'd like to have your app on file OR ask about volunteer opportunities. At the shelter where I worked, volunteers with the right qualifications (education or work experience) had an edge over those outside the organization.





If you volunteer you will probably receive some training but between now and then check out this source:





http://familyvio.csw.fsu.edu/CHV.php Click on the Online Family Violence Tutorials





See what trainings and courses are offered by area colleges and by the state you live in.





ETA: In case you don't know, this isn't a ';feel good'; type of job. Yes, it can have it's rewards but it is very stressful. You will experience challenges from your clients, coworkers, director, and other agencies including the courts, law enforcement, etc.





Also, mind your boundaries with clients, for your sake as well as theirs.





Practice good self-care now so you know how to maintain a balance. I don't tell you this to discourage you but to prepare you. You can be a part of a woman (or man) and her (his) children finding safety and creating a new and healthy life.