Deering grad works to develop volunteer program for local women's shelter

2018 May 3

Zsofia Duarte, a 2014 graduate of Deering high school is working with The Center for Wisdom's Women in Lewiston, Maine to develop a volunteer program as part of her short term program of study at Bates College. The Bates College Short Term is a five-week, intensive period of academic study, research, and exploration for students both on and off campus.

Duarte is part of the Action/Research team working with local nonprofits through the college's Harward Center for Community Partnerships. In coordination with Harward Center staff, the Action/Research team conducts extensive research, including creating and administering surveys, collecting oral histories, and designing volunteer programs. At the conclusion of short term, the students will present a report and recommendations to their community partners.

Duarte's Community Partner, the Center for Wisdom's Women, is a weekday drop-in center in Lewiston that offers women community-building and healing programs. Specifically, Duarte is working to develop volunteer program for Sophia's House, a planned residential facility for survivors of trafficking, addiction, and incarceration. Her final goal is to create a list of volunteer positions and a plan for recruitment and training. Additionally, she will deliver a written report, oral presentation, and video introduction to be used in volunteer training.