For immediate release

For more information, contact Kelly Walker at (713) 528-6798, ext. 298

HOUSTON AREA WOMEN’S CENTER SEEKING VOLUNTEERS

                HOUSTON, TX - Now in its 25th year, the Houston Area Women’s Center (HAWC) is expanding its efforts to end domestic and sexual violence.  Volunteer opportunities include group facilitation, hotline, speaker’s bureau, and a variety of clerical and office duties.  HAWC provides training and support for volunteers working directly with clients.

Prospective volunteers are encouraged to call 713/528-6798 X 272 to obtain an information packet or log on to www.hawc.org for an application.  Orientation sessions are held six timers each year at 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. and will last approximately two hours.  Please call the volunteer line for dates.

                In 2001, HAWC answered more than 30,000 hotline calls and provided counseling to more than 4,000 survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence.   In addition, through its education and outreach services, HAWC educated nearly 50,000 people on sexual assault and domestic violence issues.  HAWC volunteers gave 19,058 hours of their time in this service.

                HAWC’s mission is to empower women to advance their roles, rights and well-being by providing shelter and support services to survivors of domestic and sexual violence.  Serving people without regard to age, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, ethnicity, color or ability, HAWC educates and informs children, youth, and the community at large to prevent and eliminate the causes of domestic and sexual violence.  All services are provided free of charge.