Abbegale Baumfalk

Responsibilities

I was a Shelter Domestic Violence Advocate. In this position it was my responsibility to assess and assist client with needs in and out of the shelter. I worked collaboratively with other advocates, case managers, and shelter supervisors to find the best solution for clients who were in crisis. Part of the role was to answer crisis line calls that were pushed through to us from the crisis line. I would assess the clients situation and determine whether or not they were fit for shelter services. If they were not we would give them an assortment of referrals that might be a better fit for them.

Accomplishments

My greatest accomplishment was just watching clients that I brought in and did their intakes being able to receive services and then achieve their goals that they had set while they were in shelter. It was very heartwarming to hear clients share their wins with apartments and jobs after being in such a low position for so long.

Learning experience

Setting boundaries with clients is very important. In any job you work you need to set boundaries. The clients here are in a state of vulnerability and while you want to make them feel heard and understood, it s important that you are only letting them share about their experiences and only sharing about yours when you feel comfortable or think that it is an appropriate time to do so.

What advice would you give?

Stay true to yourself always. You are in the major of helping others, while this is an amazing field to pursue it is very easy to lose yourself in it. You are exactly where you need to be and you are going to great things. Helping others is so fulfilling. YOU Are DOING AMAZING.