April 12, 2011

Guest Blogger: Steph Smith

At The Family Effect we love to hear great stories from great volunteers about the time they spend with us, and even more so, we love to share those stories with others! This week is Volunteer Appreciation Week and one of our volunteers, Steph Smith, was kind enough to send us some of her thoughts on her service with The Family Effect:

My name is Steph Smith, President of VOICES For All. I provide free, confidential support groups for survivors of childhood sexual abuse. Volunteering at Serenity Place is one of the most rewarding things I've ever done. When women come to my group and confide in me, wanting to heal and understand, there is no better feeling than being able to talk with them and guide them through their trauma. They are so appreciative, trying so hard to change their lives and be better mothers to their children. They not only want to heal themselves but they want to know how to protect their children against the same pain they had to endure. On so many occasions they have cried, releasing some of the built up anger and suffering from their past. I could never explain the feeling of being able to listen to them, having the honor of simply being present for them. I learn more from them than they could ever learn from me. These are women who are asking for and reaching out for help. They are incredibly strong and sometimes do not realize it. They do not give up on hope. How many of us can say the same?

The staff at Serenity Place is absolutely wonderful, kind, and supportive in every way. If you are interested in volunteering at Serenity Place, please, don't hesitate any longer. The women are reaching out for help and the ripple effect you start will never end. You will literally be helping generations to heal and be happier.

To learn more about volunteer opportunities with The Family Effect, check out our volunteer page.

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