The YWCA Northcentral PA’s Wise Options program is a safe haven and source of support for the people of Lycoming County, giving help and hope to women, men and children surviving Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault and other Violent Crimes. Free and confidential services are provided by Wise Options 24-hours a day, seven days a week. Trained staff and volunteers provide immediate support and information to help clients deal with crisis and offer follow-up assistance to cope with ongoing related issues.

 

Direct action services are provided by Wise Options for Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault and Victim Services. Wise Options Services Include:

 

• Emergency Shelter               • Protection from Abuse Orders (PFA’s)

• 24 Hour Crisis Hotline           • Crime Victim Compensation

• Crisis Intervention                 • Emergency Safety Planning

• Court accompaniment           • Hospital accompaniment

• Counseling                            • Community Education Programs

 

One of the main sources of support to the YWCA and Wise Options are our dedicated volunteers. It is through their dedication and passion for the clients and services that we provide, that we are able to reach over 3,000 men, women and children through Wise Options Education and programing.

 

Below is an interview with two active Wise Options volunteers. Radecka Appiah-Padi works locally in the field of higher education, and Brian Brooking works in finance within the Williamsport community. This is their story, and how Wise Options has impacted their lives.

 

Why become a volunteer?

BRIAN: It’s a way to give back. Make Williamsport a better place                                       

RADECKA: Giving back, fulfillment, finding meaning in life. There is more to life than earning an income, what can I do to give to others.

 

What is it about Wise Options that made you want to become a volunteer?

RADECKA: Wise Options for me is like a lifeline. Every day they are giving women and children a second chance at life, and I wanted to be a part of that. It’s great getting to watch people turn their lives around. Who wouldn’t want to be a part of it

BRIAN:  I learned about Wise Options through the United Way. After serving on review panels and volunteering in different capacities, I was able to learn in-depth about the program and the impact it can have on someone’s life. We are too busy to do things just to do them, I wanted to make a direct impact. As time’s gone by, I’ve met people who have been affected by Domestic Violence, and I didn’t know how to help them. When I became a Wise Options volunteer, it gave me the opportunity to grow and share the knowledge that I’ve learned. Now when people say to me, did you see in the paper about this case of Domestic Violence, I can say ‘did you that 1 in 4 women have been victims of abuse?’ We have that knowledge, and I think it’s our responsibility to share that. It’s in our backyard.

 

What is the most impactful part of the Wise Options volunteer experience?

BRIAN:  The most important part was hearing directly from the Domestic Violence survivors. They live it, and their story is powerful. When you experience it first hand, it just stays with you, it made it real.

RADECKA: Despite the heaviness of the issue, seeing that people can do the work that Wise Options does, and help people get out of their situations, is inspiring. These women feel like there is no hope, but there is this wonderful place out there to help. It keeps you engaged. I really enjoy doing the advocacy part of Wise Options, sharing their message.

BRIAN:  As a guy its exciting to have the opportunity to reach out to other men, and help break some stereotypes. The prospect of speaking to different Fraternities and groups is really exciting.

 

What makes Wise Options volunteering a good fit?

RADECKA: If you want to make a direct impact on someone’s life, then Wise Options Volunteering is right for you. You see women and children’s lives turn around, you actually see it. You can see these women work through the process of healing, and be a part of it. They don’t just help you and push you out of the nest, these are lasting relationships. No matter what your interests or time commitments are, there is some way for you to give back. As long as you have a passion for what we do, you’ll see a result.

BRIAN:  You have the opportunity to do something that cultivates who you are, and what you want to do. I thought ‘what am I going to do, I’m a finance guy?’ But I really got into the education piece and found my niche. The most rewarding volunteer experiences come out of new challenges, they take you out of your comfort zone and help you grow. It’s really great to meet these women and see the smiles on their faces, and know that you had an impact on their lives. Wise Options is a safe place, and maybe someone’s not ready to make that leap to leave, but they have a judgment-free support system that’s there anytime you need them.

RADECKA: I don’t know why anyone wouldn’t want to be a Wise Options volunteer!

If you would like to learn more about becoming a volunteer, call 570.322.4637 and ask to speak to a volunteer coordinator, or email us at lbies@ywcawilliamsport.org, attn: Volunteer Coordinator.

Please return all completed volunteer applications to:

YWCA Northcentral PA | C/O Lynn Bies | 815 West Fourth Street | Williamsport, PA 17701