Nature and Purpose
Transition House is the second oldest shelter for battered women and their children in the United States. Founded in 1975 by two formerly battered women, Transition House has initiated intervention and prevention strategies to end domestic violence. We are a feminist, multi-cultural organization of volunteers and paid staff, committed to the prevention and cessation of domestic violence through education and intervention. Our goal is to provide direct services to battered women and their children that will enable them to take control of their lives. We also work for social change by educating the community about the issues surrounding violence against women. Our philosophy is directed at empowering women and children to live independent and fulfilling lives. We offer peer support and advocacy that encourages self-help and self-reliance.

Tasks
The PULSE student may elect to participate in the Direct Services Program or the Children's Services Program.

Students who work in the Direct Services Program will provide assistance to the Direct Services staff in supporting the women who live in the house. Duties will include researching legal services, aiding women in housing search and support, assisting staff conduct support groups, and answering our 24-hour hotline for women in crisis.

Children's Services Program provides a safe place where children are able and encouraged to express a full range of emotions. The PULSE child advocate's responsibilities will include the following: establishing a supportive and working one on one relationship with mothers and children; maintaining child care coverage for a one hour shift; facilitating a 1.5 hour, age appropriate activity, incorporating self-esteem, play or expressive therapy with children; keeping clean and safe all child support areas; working with direct services staff on issues regarding custody, foster care, day care, camps, DSS involvement, school enrollment, etc. Volunteers must be female.

Supervision
Transition House staff will provide supervision on a weekly basis and will also be available for additional support or guidance on an as needed basis. The PULSE student will receive an intensive 35 hour training on domestic violence. Additionally, the PULSE student will be asked to attend a volunteer roundtable every 5 weeks; and invited to attend monthly staff in-service trainings. An orientation will be provided.

Time Requirements
PULSE students are asked to agree to a two semester commitment. Direct Services requires five hours per week. For the Children's Services Program, students are required to commit two to five hours per week. The thirty hour training is mandatory, and will be held in early fall.

Supervisors
Linda McMaster, Volunteer & Outreach Coordinator

Genet Bekele, Director of Shelter and Children's Programs

Address
Transition House 
649 Massachusetts Avenue, Suite 6 
Cambridge, MA 02139
Tel.: (617) 354-2676

Council Member:   Ingrid Wulczyn