How to Become a BWS Volunteer or Intern

Thanks for your interest in becoming a volunteer or intern at the Battered Women's Shelter!

We are very excited that you are considering our organization as the place you want to serve. We believe volunteers to be service partners! Because of your passion, dedication and service, we are able to continue holding the standard of our mission to "lead the community in the prevention of domestic abuse...all in an effort to break the cycle of abuse and help promote peace in every family".

To get a better understanding of the process,

please read the following information that pertains to volunteer and intern acceptance.

1: Take a look at our volunteer and intern opportunities. This will help you to get a feel for the many roles and locations in which you can serve, narrow your choices for where you'd like to volunteer and develop any questions you may have.

*If you are seeking an internship opportunity, we request that you contact us at least one semester in advance in order to allow time for the interview & placement process to  be completed.  Intern applications are due 6 weeks prior to the next scheduled training.  Please be informed that intern applications that are received past this point will not be considered.

3. You will be contacted by the Outreach Coordinator to schedule an interview within two weeks of receiving your completed application.

4. Attend an interview with the Outreach Coordinator.

5. Within one week after your final interview, we will contact you in regards to your acceptance.

6.  Within one month, look for a call or email with details about the Crisis Intervention Training. The 20 hours of training are typically scheduled for evening or weekend hours. In order to begin volunteering or interning, you will need to be present for ALL training sessions.

7. Confirm your training attendance with the Outreach Coordinator.

8. Attend the trainings! Learn about all the great services we offer! Meet our awesome staff! Meet other new volunteers and interns! Get valuable tools to help w/ your experience!

9.  Complete & submit a federal background check. (Details about background check will be shared during training).

10. Volunteer and intern placement & service. You're now ready to serve with us!! Enjoy your rewarding experience!

Please Note:

• Becoming a volunteer or intern involves a competitive interview process.
• We require all that all volunteers and interns complete an interactive 20-hour training experience.
• Due to the nature of services we provide, once volunteer training is complete, you must have a current background check on file to begin volunteering.

** We ask that each volunteer be responsible for covering costs associated with the background check. The cost is about $80. Detailed info will be given during training sessions. **

Brittney Humphrey

Outreach and Volunteer Coordinator

759 West Market Street

Akron, OH 44303

330-374-0740 x 206

Brittneyh@scmcbws.org