Work--part of the reason I am here

So I started work on Monday of this week. I am working as the children's advocate at an organization called Sitkans Against Family Violence (SAFV.) My job consists of several parts that are all related to and focused on ensuring the safety and advocating on behalf of children both at the shelter and in the community. Part of my responsibilities will include childcare to help give moms a chance to participate in group meetings and attend appointments in town. I also will be an advocate for the children's needs as they arise both in and out of shelter and will be working on helping with planning and organizing Domestic Violence Awareness Month activities, Child Abuse Awareness Month and various holiday events for children. Once school starts, I will be helping to facilitate lunch and after school support groups and making safety presentations in the elementary schools.

It was a very busy, hectic week but I am really excited to have finally started and have an idea of what my job will be like and who I will be working with. My supervisor is Meg (an FJV from last year) who has been really good at introducing me to everyone, walking me through the procedures, and helping me understand both what we do in the children's program and how we do it. She has also been really great and checking in to make sure that I am doing ok both with the work and with adjusting to being here. Self care is something that she and SAFV stress and is something that I know will become more important as the year goes on (just like it would become more necessary later in the semester at school.)

After a week at work, I am starting to feel comfortable with my position and am adjusting to working a full time job. I was exhausted several days after work but also very fulfilled because I feel like I am doing something that matters. I feel that I have learned a LOT this week and am excited for what lies ahead. I am excited to learn more as I get more comfortable with my daily activities, excited to work with the children and anxious to get started with the school presentations and support groups.