[A_Space_Between]

Hello everybody,

I'm hoping this is an okay forum to put this in, it doesn't seem to fit anywhere else. I am filling out a form in hopes that I can start volunteering for a program in my community that collects qualitative & quantitative data about domestic violence court cases.

The goals of the specific program I am interested in volunteering for are:

1. To increase community and public presence in the Domestic Violence court.
2. To increase public awareness and understanding of how woman abuse cases are responded to within the Domestic Violence court.
3. To work collaboratively with the justice system to improve offender accountability and victim support and safety within the Domestic Violence court.

One of the questions on the application is 'what skills, strengths, & personal characteristics do you possess that will enable you to be effective as a Court Watch volunteer?'

I'm having trouble coming up with what to say about that part. I'm kind of thinking that the ability to be impartial might be one, but then I'm wondering if they actually want impartial volunteers. Or empathetic listening skills, but again I'm not sure if that is something they would want.

So, if you ran a program like that, what would you want your volunteers to be like? Any ideas?

Thanks,
Jenna

[shezbut]

Hi Jenna,

I think that you being willing to volunteer your time and effort to be there for those stuck in a physically and emotionally abusive situation is very strong and commendable.

Going through your personal goals gave me a couple of ideas. #1 Looks great! #2 You *may* want to change your wording to include men in those being abused. Society really closes it's eyes to that fact. Increasing public awareness of what IS abusive behavior, and how courts typically treat cases like these, may be helpful. #3 Looks terrific!

When referring the the Q about your skills, strengths, and personal characteristics allowing you to become an effective Court Watch volunteer....

I would recommend referring to being empathetic. How you will be there to emotionally support the victim of abuse, so that he/she can hopefully find the strength to speak the truth in the courtroom without fearing repercussions from their testimony.

That's my take on it anyway. Very best wishes to you & those that you hope to support in the future!

[A_Space_Between]

Originally Posted by shezbut

Going through your personal goals gave me a couple of ideas. #1 Looks great! #2 You *may* want to change your wording to include men in those being abused. Society really closes it's eyes to that fact. Increasing public awareness of what IS abusive behavior, and how courts typically treat cases like these, may be helpful. #3 Looks terrific!

They aren't actually my personal goals, they're the goals of the organization . It's a feminist organization, actually. But, yes, I agree. Men can be abused.

Thanks for the advice about traits & skills though