The ARK Domestic Violence Shelter relies on volunteers to help them carry out their mission of providing a safe haven for victims of domestic abuse and sexual assault and their families. They are hosting a Volunteer Training Course for new volunteers who may have interaction with clients at the shelter.

This ten hour course begins on Thursday, March 26th, from 2 pm to 4 pm and continues the following five Thursdays through April 23rd.  Pre-registration is required but there is no fee for the course.  The course will answer a lot of questions about domestic violence and sexual abuse. It isn’t just for volunteers, but is also designed to help workers in any field that may deal with domestic violence or sexual assault victims, including medical staff workers, EMT, law enforcement or counseling. The course is necessary for anyone wanting to volunteer at the shelter itself.  Training is not necessary for volunteers that help out for special events.

The five two hour modules include: The History of DV/Sexual Assault (taught by Mary Silver, Volunteer/Program Coordinator), The Many Facets of Abuse (taught by Joan Blisard, Client Advocate), Texas Law regarding DV/Sexual Assault/Crime Victims Compensation (taught by Savannah Cox, Legal Advocate), Special Needs Clients (taught by Alicia Robles, Special Needs Advocate) and Families in Trauma and Rebuilding (taught by Christie Tongate, Program Director).

Those interested in taking the course, may call The ARK at 325-643-2699 and ask for Mary Silver.  For more information about the ARK Shelter, you can go online to www.arkshelter.org.

Photo Cutline:   Savannah Cox is shown here explaining the cycle of violence for victims who need protective orders.