2024 Joyce Stein Award Celebration
HONORING THOSE WHO MAKE A POSITIVE IMPACT ON THE GROWTH AND ADVANCEMENT OF WOMEN The Joyce Stein Memorial Award is given in memory of Boisean Joyce Ann Stein, a long-time […]
Sarah Wolfe, Jesuit Volunteer Client Advocate
What do you do in your job at the WCA?
I am a Jesuit Volunteer (JV) serving at the WCA for one year as a Client Advocate. As a CA, I split my time at the Crisis Center, where I answer our Crisis Hotline and meet with community members interested in our services, and working at our 120-day residential shelter.
How long have you been with the WCA?
I have been working at the WCA since August.
Where did you work prior to joining the WCA team?
After graduating in 2013, I was a Jesuit Volunteer placed in Sacramento, California for a year. While in California, I served as a Youth Development Coach (similar to a case manager) at Tubman House, a transitional living program for homeless, parenting teens. Previously, I’ve worked part time jobs from catering to coaching pee-wee tennis, and tutored at a tuition-free, all boys, middle school throughout college in Boston, MA.
What do you find most rewarding about your work at the WCA?
I work amongst people I would call heroes. And by heroes I mean women who have been through so much pain and injustice, and yet face each day with bravery and love and determination. I have the privilege to see courageous acts daily—to the women who walk through our doors asking for help for the first time, to a residential client who celebrates one year sobriety–I am surrounded by strong, resilient and brave women. It is amazing to see how with safety, support, respect, and compassion, someone can begin to transform and shine their light a little brighter. I have the honor to be able to witness a small part of these women’s incredible journeys—how cool of a job is that?
How have you changed or grown as a person through your work here?
I have learned how to be a calm, supportive presence to those in crisis, and the many different ways trauma affects an individual. I am learning how to “meet people where they are” and be with someone instead of for them. I have always considered myself a feminist, and have been passionate about domestic violence and sexual assault, but since working here I have developed a deeper concern, frustration and motivation for the changes that need to take place in our society. I have six months remaining at the WCA, and I am excited to continue to grow professionally and personally throughout the year.
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