“Volunteer service brings a special source of personal satisfaction and the opportunity to make a difference in your community.”
This week is National Volunteer Appreciation Week and the Hubbard House staff wants all of our wonderful volunteers to know how much we appreciate all that each does for the organization!
Hubbard House wouldn’t be where it is today without the dedication of its volunteers. When we think of volunteers, we think of how it got its start:
In 1976, a group of women purchased a house on Hubbard Street and became the first emergency shelter in Florida for victims of domestic violence and their children. This establishment was named Hubbard House. Since then, our organization has grown exponentially, all thanks to our devoted and unwavering volunteers.
“I consider it a privilege to get to know each volunteer and the story behind why they have decided to give their time and energy to support this cause,” said Tracy Knight, Volunteer Program Specialist for Hubbard House. “After hearing numerous stories, it all comes down to a love for people. I watch our volunteers show love every day whether in the court room, at the shelter or in our outreach programs – they show love by listening, sharing and just being there.”
Hubbard House thrives thanks to the more than 1,000 volunteers that serve in all Hubbard House programs. Our volunteers not only give their time and energy, but they provide ideas, increase our visibility in the community and help us in supporting our ultimate goal of Every Relationship Violence-Free. The most important skill required of our volunteers is the capacity to care and the willingness to help those in need.
Interested in volunteering with us? There are many volunteer opportunities for groups and individuals. For more information, visit http://hubbardhouse.org/help/volunteering/. Every volunteer’s effort is appreciated no matter how small.
If you or someone you know is in an abusive relationship, please call the Hubbard House 24-hour domestic violence hotline at 904-354-3114 or 800-500-1119. Hubbard House can help.
ABOUT HUBBARD HOUSE: Founded as the first domestic violence shelter in Florida in 1976, Hubbard House is a certified, comprehensive domestic violence center providing programs and services to more than 5,000 women, children, and men annually in Duval and Baker counties. While Hubbard House is most known for its emergency shelter, the agency also provides extensive adult and youth outreach services, school-based education, therapeutic childcare, batterers’ intervention programs, court advocacy and volunteer and community education opportunities. Visit www.hubbardhouse.org to learn more.
By: Gabrielle Morolla and Lindsay Van-Zant