“Sometimes volunteer activities seem like works of obligation. New Beginnings is a work of pleasure. I enjoy both the worthiness of the accomplishments and the great people I have a chance to work with.”
— A New Beginnings' volunteer
New Beginnings has an extensive and active volunteer community – in 2009, over 100 women and men. We attribute much of our success to volunteers who are committed to ending domestic violence and to supporting those who are the targets of domestic violence. Roughly one-third of our volunteers have experienced domestic violence. Women and men are invited to volunteer.
Volunteers contribute to nearly every facet of direct and support service. Volunteers are divided into two groups: Direct Service and Support Service.
New Beginnings welcomes special group projects organized by volunteers from the community. In the past, school clubs, Girl Scout troops and local businesses have found creative ways to give back. For example, you and your group can:
Have an idea for a project you don't see here? We'd love to hear about it! Email us.
Becoming a New Beginnings volunteer is a rewarding and engaging experience that requires a serious commitment. New Beginnings' implements a thorough volunteer screening process and a 30+ hour domestic violence advocacy training.
If you are interested in Direct Service, you will then register for our domestic violence advocacy training. Trainings are held in Seattle.
Q: Can I complete court-ordered community service hours at New Beginnings?
A: No, New Beginnings does not have positions available for court-ordered volunteers.
Q: Can those under the age of 18 volunteer at New Beginnings?
A: All direct service and most support service volunteers must be 18 and above to participate. However, special group projects by youth may be accommodated by New Beginnings. Please contact us for these inquiries.
Q: Why do you have screening interviews to become a volunteer and to participate in Volunteer Training?
A: New Beginnings sees each volunteer as a valuable investment. As such, a large portion of the training cost is waived in exchange for a year-long volunteer commitment. As volunteers can often work closely with New Beginnings participants and their children, we carefully screen all potential volunteers to make sure it is a good fit. Completion of the application does not guarantee an in-person screening interview. Completion of the interview screening process does not guarantee a slot in the training. Similarly, completion of the training does not guarantee your preferred volunteer opportunity.
Q: Can I volunteer as a personal therapist or counselor to your participants?
A: New Beginnings is not able to accomodate volunteers who wish to provide service in this capacity. New Beginnings does have Mental Health interns from local universities, however these placements are made directly by said universities.
Q: I can't volunteer now, but I'd like to be kept aware of upcoming trainings and/or opportunities. How can I do that?
A: The best ways to connect with us are on Facebook or join our email list to hear the latest news!