First American’s Volunteer Spotlight program recognizes employees who are active in their communities. Each month, employees record their volunteer hours, and one employee is selected at random to receive a donation to the charity of their choice.
Amy Alanis, a senior technical trainer in Austin, Texas, volunteers with both SafePlace, a local agency that provides services for individuals and families affected by domestic violence and sexual assault, and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas, a mentoring program that pairs children facing adversity with adult role models to create a lasting impact on children’s lives.
How did you get started with SafePlace and Big Brothers Big Sisters?
Austin is home to many diverse volunteer organizations, but it didn’t take me long to decide on two causes that were nearest to my heart. I started with SafePlace, and after completing close to 60 hours of certified training, I began serving as a Sexual Assault Advocate to survivors who come to SafePlace for forensic exams and medical care. These exams are provided at no cost in our onsite clinic, Eloise House. Advocates provide emotional support and safety planning, help survivors understand their legal rights as crime victims, and share community resources available to them throughout the healing process. While working at SafePlace, I also learned about their Expect Respect® program, which focuses on preventing teen dating violence and educating young women and men on building healthy relationships. This cause inspired me to apply to be a Big with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas. They matched me perfectly with my Little Sister Bella, who is 16 years old.
We all have a light inside of us to share. Flip the switch! It will make a night and day difference in someone’s life, and yours.
What do you find most rewarding about your volunteer work?
Although I’ve enjoyed my career in training and technology, for several years I’ve felt a strong calling to share my other gifts in the social services field. I decided that volunteer service was the right path for me, and that commitment has provided more fulfillment than I could have ever imagined. The most rewarding thing about volunteering with SafePlace is seeing firsthand the difference that you’re making. At times it’s hard to see, but it’s always there. Supporting survivors through trauma can be difficult, but in the end you’re reminded that the simple act of being present for someone can have a lasting impact. I feel the same about being a Big. I’m an only child, so being able to share a special relationship with Bella has been a blessing to me. Every once in a while, it’s hard to tell who’s mentoring who!
What has surprised you most about your time with these groups?
I hesitate to mention it again, but the personal fulfillment has surprised me the most. I knew that volunteering would provide the opportunity for enrichment in my life, but I didn’t know that it would come so quickly and be so much.
What advice would you have for another First American employee who’s interested in donating his or her time?
My best advice is to follow your heart. Let it lead you to a place where you can share your talents where they’re most needed. We all have a light inside of us to share. Flip the switch! It will make a night and day difference in someone’s life, and yours.
SafePlace's onsite clinic, Eloise House.