The projects and programs of TOV are made possible by our outstanding partner agencies. We are recognizing them periodically in our agency spotlight. This month, we are highlighting SHALVA. SHALVA supports Jewish women experiencing and healing from domestic abuse, through counseling, supportive services, and community education. 

We asked Deborah Zionts, Outreach and Education Coordinator, a couple questions about the agency and their involvement with volunteers.

1. What is your agency mission? 

SHALVA supports Jewish women experiencing and healing from domestic abuse through free, confidential and unlimited counseling, supportive services, and community education. 

2. What kind of population does your agency serve?

We do not have a "typical" client, as domestic abuse happens equally throughout the Jewish community, regardless of religious belief or practice. Domestic violence occurs in all sectors of our population, no matter what one's age, education, race, gender or income are. Our clients come to us from the Chicagoland area, many of the suburbs, and neighboring states. We also speak on the phone to loved ones calling out of concern for someone they think may be suffering from domestic abuse, some from as far away as Israel. 

3. How do volunteers impact your agency?

Knowing that someone has taken time away from their busy life to volunteer at SHALVA is inspiring to both our clients and our staff. We have many volunteers who generously donate their time and talents to SHALVA, which allows us to offer even more support and expertise to our clients.

4. why do you like working with volunteers?

SHALVA gets many phonecalls from volunteers because they are passionate about wanting to help women who are victims of domestic violence. Our volunteers are selfless, bright, talented, and come from interesting and diverse backgrounds that have led them to want to work with our agency. It has been a pleasure to work with our volunteers who understand the devastating effects of domestic abuse on the victim and their family, and have chosen to give their time and energy to SHALVA and our clients.

We want to thank SHALVA for all the incredible work they do and look forward to collaborating with them in the future!