A Volunteer’s Story – Jane’s Story
“I knew that the Women’s Center was a place where I could make a difference!”
Shortly after Jane retired in 2003 as a systems engineer for IBM, she realized that she wanted to volunteer her time, talents and passion for helping others and decided that the Women’s Center of Rhode Island was a place where she could make a difference.
With a keen sense of awareness about the issues of domestic violence and the control that it plays in the lives of so many people, Jane began to learn more about domestic violence and developed a profound sensitivity about the issues of abuse and control.
The more she learned, the more she realized, “there but for the grace of God, go I”.
Initially, she reached out to help the Women’s Center by donating clothing and making other donations. Over time, she began to learn more about the Women’s Center and decided to be proactive by making a call to inquire about volunteer opportunities.
The timing was right and the need for a volunteer to answer calls at the front desk while the Residential Services staff held their weekly meetings became evident. As a result, Jane became the first hotline volunteer to manage the front desk.
Since that time, Jane continues to volunteer and manage the hotline every Thursday afternoon. She has mentored many hotline volunteers throughout the years and has inspired others to make a difference.
What does she find most rewarding about her volunteer work at the Women’s Center?
She enjoys meeting and working with a variety of caring and compassionate individuals committed to making a difference. And, at the end of the day, she has a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment knowing that she has helped individuals and families dealing with domestic violence in their lives.
Jane knew that the Women’s Center was a place where she could make a difference and she has done so for almost 10 years!
Find out how you can make a difference by joining Jane and others as a volunteer!