Wendy Bachman, a Crisis Response Advocate volunteer with Lutheran Community Services Northwest in Spokane, exemplifies the power of compassion during vulnerable moments for survivors of sexual assault. As part of the Community Sexual Assault Program, Wendy and her fellow volunteers provide critical support by answering a 24/7 hotline and responding to hospital calls when survivors seek medical care. Over her five years of volunteering, Wendy has logged impressive numbers: 500 on-call hours, 40 hotline calls, and 15 hospital visits. Her nursing background and personal experiences enable her to offer empathy and empowerment to those affected by trauma.
Wendy is inspired by the resilience of the survivors and finds that her volunteer work not only fulfills her sense of purpose but also enhances her well-being. She encourages others to consider volunteering, emphasizing that helping others can be beneficial for oneself as well. Wendy’s commitment to advocacy and support has made a significant impact on the lives of many survivors, showcasing the heart of community service and the importance of standing by those in need.
