Volunteer With ESCADV
ESCADV was founded by community volunteers, and volunteers remain the beating heart of our mission. Whether you have two hours a month or two days a week, your hands and heart can help survivors heal.
Your Time Can Save a Life Right Here on the Shore.
How You Can Make a Difference
Community Outreach & Special Events
Help us plan local fundraisers, table at farmer’s markets and festivals across Accomack and Northampton, and spread life-saving awareness in our neighborhood. (Flexible / Project-Based)
Direct Survivor Advocacy & Crisis Support
Work directly on the front lines as a trained 24/7 crisis line responder, shelter support volunteer, companion advocate, or support group co-facilitator. (Requires specialized Level 3 training)
Donation Management & Logistics
Help accept, organize, and sort physical donations at Hope Harbor, or assist with transporting furniture and home goods to help survivors transition into safe new housing. (1+ days/week or as needed)
Administrative & Creative Support
Put your office, organizational, or creative skills to work! Assist with front-desk reception, phone inquiries, initial paperwork, or graphic design for outreach flyers and campaigns. (Consistent weekday shifts)
Free Training & Volunteer Pathways
We provide 100% free, comprehensive training for all volunteers. You don’t need a background in social work or law—just a compassionate heart and a willingness to learn.
Path 1: Community & Event Volunteer
- Training Time: 4 Hours
- Best For: Event setup, community tabling, and donation sorting.
- What You’ll Learn: Domestic violence dynamics, agency history, confidentiality, personal safety, and basic survivor-centered care.
Path 2: Operations & Client Support Volunteer
- Training Time: 20 Hours (Path 1 + 16 additional hours)
- Best For: Administrative office support, client donation transport, and shelter facility assistance.
- What You’ll Learn: Trauma-informed care, safety planning fundamentals, victims’ rights, boundaries, and supporting children exposed to violence.
Path 3: Direct Services & Crisis Advocate
- Training Time: 40 Hours (Path 1 & 2 + 20 additional hours)
- Best For: Answering the 24/7 crisis hotline, shelter support, and companion advocacy.
- What You’ll Learn: Advanced crisis counseling, legal systems & protective orders, lethality assessments, medical accompaniment, and specialized advocacy.
Volunteer Application Form
Ready to join our team? Fill out the brief application below, and our team will follow up with upcoming training dates and opportunities.
Questions about volunteering?Reach out to our team at (757) 787-1329 or email update@escadv.org.
Your financial support keeps our shelter open and our advocates on the front lines.