Our weekend advocates hold a truly special place within Options. While most of the world slows down for the weekend, their work keeps going – often for 48 hours straight. These advocates are the heartbeat of our shelter during those quiet hours, ensuring survivors continue to have safety, care, and compassion no matter the day or time.
Because many community resources are closed on weekends, our weekend staff often have to think creatively and act resourcefully to meet survivors’ needs. Their work requires patience, flexibility, and a deep understanding of what it means to truly show up for others.
This week, we’re excited to introduce Justine, one of our dedicated Weekend Shelter Advocates. In her 9 months with Options, Justine has already shown incredible empathy, adaptability, and heart – qualities that make her an essential part of our team and a strong support for survivors.
Let’s get to know Justine!
What is your name, title, and how long have you worked at Options?
Justine, Weekend Shelter Advocate, about 9 months.
What does a “day in the life” of your role actually look like, and how does it change from day to day?
Being a weekend advocate at the shelter, I work a 48-hour shift that is from Friday at 11PM to Sunday at 11PM. Generally, with a 2nd advocate, whose presence assures that one of us is able to respond to emergency calls, provide transportation if needed & to deliver meals to hotel clients if any of those are needed, as well as take breaks. There are 2 offices in the shelter where advocates can sleep & take care of phone calls, private conversations & documentation. There are times when all of the survivors in shelter and the phones stay quiet & days where one, the other, or both are non-stop.
What’s one thing people misunderstand most about your job?
That all our services are completely free, confidential & voluntary. A lot of people aren’t aware of that until we tell them.
If someone shadowed you for a day, what would surprise them the most?
How personable our services are for each of our employees and survivors. We REALLY care, this isn’t JUST a job for a lot of us.
What’s the hardest part of saying goodbye to a survivor who’s moving on?
Knowing that I will not be able to get updates on their success.
What’s a small “win” that makes you feel like the work you do really matters?
When a survivor opens up to me, they share their story & thank me for what I have done for them. A lot of them don’t get to know the feeling I experience when I hear those words. All I have ever wanted to do is HELP people.
What’s a behind-the-scenes moment you’re proud of but few people would ever know about?
Having private conversations with survivors & finding a common interest that creates a real connection. For just those moments, it’s like we’re both able to let our guards down, forget all of our struggles & trauma and just live in the moment.
One of my favorite moments during a shift is when I decided to go get Daylight Donuts & bring enough back to shelter to share with my coworker and the survivors in shelter. One of the survivors literally CRIED because they had never had a FRESH Donut. Which in turn made me cry.
What’s a ritual or habit you use to transition out of “work mode” after a tough day?
Sometimes I just jam to music on my way home. Others, I ride in silence. When I get home I look up at the stars and/or moon and take some deep breaths before I go into my home.
Who or what do you lean on when the work feels overwhelming?
There are SO many people who are available. We always have a 2nd advocate on shift with us, plus an on-call supervisor we can reach out. Every one of my coworkers and supervisors are beyond welcoming to listen and officer assistance. Also, I am able to step into the office and video chat my fiancé & almost 2-year old daughter.
What’s something you’ve learned about yourself because of this job?
Honestly, that I second guess myself and my abilities way too much.
What’s the most unexpected lesson a client or coworker has taught you?
It truly is the smallest things & moments in life that make all of the difference in the world.
When did you know that advocacy work was the right fit for you?
Almost immediately! I have never truly known what I wanted to do, but I have always known that I wanted to help people.
What’s one thing you wish every survivor could hear and truly believe?
That they DESERVE kindness & happiness.
What’s your go-to “pick me up” song or snack at work?
Cherry Pepsi!
If you could describe your advocacy style in three words, what would they be?
Empathetic, sincere & passionate.
What’s one thing about you that your coworkers might not even know?
That I am a survivor of sexual and domestic violence. This organization is so thoughtful, caring and non-judgmental, which makes it easy to share with others, so I have already done so.
If you need any additional information, have a question, or a concern, feel free to reach out to Options at our 24-hour toll-free helpline 800-794-4624. You can also reach an advocate via text by texting HOPE to 847411 or click 24-Hour Chat with Options.
This grant project is supported by the State General Fund for Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, sub-grant number 25-SGF-07, as administered by the Kansas Governor’s Grants Program. The opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Office of Kansas Governor.