40-HOUR TRAINING

Haven House volunteers wishing to work directly with shelter residents or on hotline, participate in a comprehensive 40-hour training that is offered twice per year (typically in spring and fall).  Volunteers develop an understanding of domestic violence history and its impact on the community; gain knowledge on social, cultural and religious issues as they relate to domestic violence; gain counseling and crisis intervention skills; and become acquainted with Haven House programs and services offered to the community. Successful completion of our training is required for all volunteers who wish to work directly with clients – you must attend all training sessions or make arrangements to make them up.  Administrative and maintenance volunteers are also encouraged to attend, however this is not required.

Topics covered during training are:  history, dynamics and legal aspects of domestic violence; racism, religious and cultural issues; impact of domestic violence on children, elders and people with disabilities, homophobia and trans issues; counseling and crisis intervention skills; substance abuse issues; and Haven House services and procedures.  In addition to the 14 sessions, volunteers who plan to work in direct service will be expected to do one 4-hour observation shift on-site during the third or fourth week of training.  All Haven House facilities are wheelchair accessible.

We ask that volunteers be available to volunteer 12-15 hours a month for six months to one year after the completion of training unless other arrangements are made. If you are interested in volunteering but would be unable to commit to these criteria, please contact me so we can create an opportunity that would work for you. 

Download our Fall 2008 40 Hour Training Brochure.
For more information about volunteering and to obtain an application, please contact:
, Outreach Supervisor, Diector of Volunteers at (626) 564-8880 Ex. 110