Sister's House also runs a shelter for victims of this unfortunate problem.

"When I called them about volunteer opportunities, they were enthusiastic because they don't have many guys helping out," he said. "I was a little hesitant, but I started to think that more guys should start working with domestic violence, especially since men most often cause the problem."
While volunteering, Blake takes phone calls from people who want to escape their relationship and come to the shelter. Sometimes he talks to the victims themselves, and other times he talks to a third party. He is trained to inquire about the problem and make sure the victim really belongs at the My Sister's House shelter or if they need some other type of help. He also provides services such as meeting victims at a police station or hospital and aiding victims in court as their advocate.
Blake has also volunteered with Habitat for Humanity in his hometown of Denver. In his free type he enjoys reading and he is an avid Denver Broncos fan.

About Blake O'Shaughnessy...
Hometown: Denver, Colorado
Degree Objective: History major, Political Science minor
Expected Graduation: Spring 2006
Current Volunteer Activity: My Sister's House
What are you most proud of contributing your organization? I like to volunteer and help people in general, but I feel like I possess certain qualities that make victims I talk to feel comfortable around me. Clients at the shelter need all the comfort they can get, especially when first entering.
Previous Volunteer Activities: I participated in Habitat for Humanity at home.
What do you enjoy about community service? I like interacting with clients, especially when they have children staying at the shelter with them. Generally, I like thinking that instead of sitting around watching TV, I'm helping out and really affecting people's lives.
Most memorable volunteer experience? I can not get into any details because the organization is strictly confidential, but I can remember most of the clients that I have interacted with and have happy memories of almost all of them.
What have you learned about yourself since volunteering? I have learned that I was very lucky to grow in a good household with a loving family. Most of our clients do not come from the best backgrounds and unfortunately some see domestic violence as a normal part of life.
What would you tell someone who is thinking about volunteering? My main advice is to be open and not afraid to take a chance. If not, you could pass up something that could change your life.
For more information about My Sister's House: Call (843)747-4069

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