SLU PIC Research/Training Intern

This summer I had the opportunity to intern at a domestic violence agency, Renewal House, located near St. Lawrence University in Canton, New York. For the first two weeks I went under extensive training that informed me on domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, current Renewal House policies and programs, and advocate duties. From there I shadowed other advocates, taking note on how they take a trauma- informed approach for each client. Through training and exposure, I came to develop the holistic skills of being an advocate; to meet the client where they are, inform them of their options, and provide hope in situations where they need it most. In taking hotline calls, I learned to act quickly to a situation, first taking steps to ensure safety, then developing a safety plan while providing emotional support to the client. By completing these tasks, I developed skills in multitasking, communication, critical thinking, and responding effectively to clients in crisis.

During my time at Renewal House, my responsibilities were split between tending to my personal projects and assisting with hotline calls. In addition to hotline safety planning and support, I also referred survivors to relevant community resources when appropriate. When doing this, the agency focused on empowering clients; so I learned to provide options, allowing them to make their own informed choices. On the days I was not assisting with the hotline, I revised and updated program policies in respect to New York’s OCFS guidelines. I also created an updated informational technological abuse packet for victims pertaining to NNEDV Safety Net’s toolkits. Further, I remodeled service surveys for accessibility and efficiency by creating a digital use option. From taking on updating projects, and responding to hotline calls, I saw different aspects of a domestic violence agency; both in how Renewal House tends to clients in crisis, while navigating a non-profit that works to ensure that services remain available for those who need it. 

Beyond the work itself, I think a lot of what made my experience was the people I got to work with. At the beginning of my internship I was really worried about the emotional toll that a job like this can place on someone. However, the supportive environment there really helped and my co-workers were open to talk if needed.  They also were people who were passionate about the work they do and were approachable if I had a question to ask. In turn, one of the things I really admired about the agency was their efforts towards team bonding and self-care. During my time there I got to take part in their self-care day for their employees. I really appreciated seeing this initiative for their employees as I find that it is sometimes hard to find in a workplace. 

I also admired their relationship with the community. Almost everyday someone called about donating, wanting to give back to a significant resource that has either helped them or someone they know. In being a non-profit the support that they receive from the community is significant in helping to meet the needs of the clients. Coming from a small town myself, I enjoyed seeing this relationship fostered between the community and Renewal House. I felt that throughout my internship I saw a cycle of care, from the care of employees to the clients and the care from the community to Renewal House. Seeing this made my experience ever so impactful. This experience has taught me so much and has shaped me as a person. I had learned new things about myself and developed a greater value in community and non-profit work.