Volunteer requirements and training at the Center Against Family Violence

Volunteer Shelter

The Center Against Family Violence (CAFV), located in El Paso, TX is an organization dedicated to confront and prevent domestic violence in all its forms. The CAFV started out as a hotline service but has not blossomed into comprehensive shelter that aims to protect those who have been harmed due to domestic violence.

To become a volunteer at CAFV, a lengthy and tough training program is necessary. Since many of the women who use these services need protection, confidentiality and security policies are put into place that make it difficult to simply volunteer at this shelter. A lengthy application must be filled out as well as a criminal background check must be performed before you are allowed to volunteer at this shelter. Personal references are also required. This process is much like being employed there as the hiring standards and the volunteering standards are very similar. According to their website "all direct-service volunteers and interns are required to attend a training before they begin working with clients. Because client needs are CAFV's main priority, no exceptions will be made. CAFV also requires that volunteers commit to at 10 hours a month in addition to training.