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Every month, Sarah’s Inn nominates a volunteer to be our Volunteer of The Month. Rayell Grayson was nominated as August’s Volunteer of The Month. Rayell joined the Sarah’s Inn team in December 2019. Our Volunteer and In-Kind Coordinator, Mariam, asked Rayell about her experiences as a volunteer.
- How long have you been volunteering with us, and how did you hear about Sarah’s Inn?
“I have been here for almost four years. I don’t remember how I heard or learned about Sarah’s Inn, but I may have done a Google search for 40-hour Domestic Violence Advocacy training, or possibly from a good friend. Either way, I read reviews about the organization and it seemed like people respected the work and services that are provided. I checked out the schedule and saw that one of the trainings was starting soon, and it was like the stars aligned, so I decided to volunteer and sign-up.”
- What have you enjoyed about volunteering with Sarah’s Inn?
“I’ve only volunteered on the crisis line and I love that I can be there for someone that I don’t know. Even if someone is not in crisis, I am grateful to be able to provide support to someone, whether it be emotionally, by providing a listening ear and/or resources.”
- Every month, you take on multiple crisis line shifts. How do you find ways to fit volunteering into your schedule?
“I looked at the calendar and wanted to be intentional and give back to the community. I work as a therapist in my career and it is important for me to give back to the community that I work with. I have my bi-weekly volunteer schedule set on my calendar and it stays as a priority. Every other week I’m intentional about honoring that commitment.”
- What made you want to volunteer at a Domestic Violence Agency?
“I was working at a community mental health organization for many years and saw how prevalent domestic violence was in the clients' relationships. I felt that I was not receiving enough training in that organization so I decided to attend training outside of my job and be a resource for anyone who can benefit from additional domestic violence services, support, and/or advocacy.”
- Some people may find it difficult to balance working, volunteering, and their personal lives. Why do you think it is important for folks to find the time to volunteer?
“There is no greater feeling than when you give back to others. It is a source of happiness for me, and it doesn't require much to show up for people who need support. We are living in difficult times and volunteering is something I grew up participating in, it’s one of my family values. I also volunteer outside of Sarah’s Inn and it fills my cup.”
- Why should people volunteer at Sarah’s Inn?
“First off Sarah’s Inn does amazing work and advocacy for domestic violence! That is the number one answer that I would give. Sarah’s Inn is about helping the community and helping people live healthier lives. They follow through with what they do. The people there are incredibly kind and that is why I have volunteered for as much as I have and will continue to volunteer as long as I can. I also believe it’s incredibly important to raise awareness about DV support and services in our communities.”
Thank you Rayell for volunteering with Sarah’s Inn. If you are interested in volunteering, the best way to get involved is by emailing volunteering@sarahsinn.org, where you will be able to learn more about volunteering opportunities that are available to you.
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