PROJECT LINK at HOPE---- by Chamira Brown

1. I volunteered my time at HOPE in Charleston, IL. HOPE helps individuals who is or was in a domestic violence relationship. They provide them with information and tips on how to get help. They also provide housing to an individual that has escape from their abusive relationship and is now seeking shelter.
2. HOPE service activity related to the topic in FCS 4840 when we cover a PowerPoint over domestic violence. We learned that leaving isn't the hard part, but after leaving is when the trouble may start, because your partner may come after you and cause more harm to you. At HOPE they provide classes that individuals can attend to get help. One class provides tips and steps on the correct way to leave your abusive partner. In this course we also talked about disadvantaged families a lot. Once an individuals has to leave their home and come stay in the housing that HOPE would provide for them, it puts them at a disadvantage especially if kids are involved, it’s like they must start off with a new life.
3. While volunteering at HOPE I networked with the employers, other students who were volunteering, and an individual who once was a victim of domestic violence. I actually got to experience being in one of the rooms that the victims would stay in, it was nothing like staying in a home of your own apartment, but they where grateful because they were safe and that’s the most important thing. While networking with one of the employer I told her I would love to do an internship here and she stated that they would love to have me. So from this experience and by networking with other I just may have landed an internship at this site!
4. The potential effect that this organization can have on the community is very positive. The founder of HOPE that is in Charleston was actually born and raised in Charleston. She was a victim of domestic violence and managed to get away safely.  She then started this organization for others in her community that was in a domestic violence relationship and really didn't think they could get out. This was great for the community, because it gives others a chance to see that other people in their same community are dealing with this issue and now they finally have some where to go to get help.
5. I really enjoy this Project Link assignment. First it got me to do something that I never really do which is volunteer. While I was at the HOPE center I got to paint a room for a victim, we got to put quotes and encouraging words all over the room. While writing my words and seeing what others were writing I started to encourage myself. Also I was there to witness the victim see the room we painted for her, and was so happy. I felt good about myself, because I had actually helped someone smile that probably didn't smile often it was a great experience. I will be back to volunteer more of my time!!