A Day in the Life of an Advocate

As an advocate with Journey Center’s Justice System Advocacy Program part of my job is to facilitate a Support Group for individuals who have experienced abusive relationships. Individuals call our 24-Hour Helpline looking for support and I receive those referrals.

As soon as I receive a referral, I call each individual to learn more about them, their story, and their family. During this initial phone call, I gather information, ask what motivated them to participate in a Support Group, ask about their situation and safety, and always provide safety planning.

Journey Center offers multiple Support Groups with a variety of times and locations; both in person and virtual; and are available in Spanish. The Support Group that I facilitate even offers childcare because we know that can be a barrier for survivors.

When an individual comes to Support Group for the first time, I meet with them and introduce myself and the volunteers that help with this Support Group. We’ll answer any questions they have and do our best to provide a supportive, caring environment so that they feel welcome coming to Support Group and reassure them that our Support Group is a safe, confidential space.

We begin each Support Group with guidelines – laying the foundation for each individual to feel seen, heard, and comfortable. After going over our guidelines we do an ice breaker, where everyone gets to share their name and talk about what is going on in their lives and with their situation.

During our time together we discuss a number of topics. My role as an advocate is to facilitate but I lean on the individuals attending to tell me what they need. Group topics can include healthy relationships, resources, bounce-back ideas, and self-growth, but the most important part of Support Group is that each person feels as though they are not alone on their Journey, and that they know their feelings are valid.

Being an advocate is a unique experience to see the people I work with grow through their process. Domestic violence is not something easy to talk about with family or even friends, but our Support Group offers what they need when they need it, and provides an environment for each person to share their experiences or concerns.

Our group is full of experience and knowledge from every survivor who comes through the door. Some individuals got out of their relationships many years ago, some of them are going through the criminal system while they’re in group, and some are not sure if what they are experiencing is domestic violence but are seeking a better understanding of what a healthy relationship is.

I believe if we can provide options, our survivors can make the best choice for themselves and their families.

We are always here for you when you need to talk.
Call or text our 24-Hour Helpline: 216.391.4357 (HELP) or live chat.