Statistics show that one in four women will be affected by domestic violence in their lifetime, said Nicole D’Avino, a junior psychology major and volunteer at the Broome County SOS Shelter.

“We can’t change these women’s past, but we can help make a difference in their future,” D’Avino said. “By volunteering at the SOS Shelter, students have a chance to work together to help raise awareness and support the community.”

On Saturday, March 28, Deb Lewis, community relations coordinator for the SOS Shelter, will do interactive training on campus for any student interested in volunteering at the Endicott-based SOS Shelter, D’Avino said.

She’ll talk about the basics behind domestic violence.

“Students will learn what they can do to help clients going through domestic violence-related issues and what services the shelter provides,” D’Avino said. “Anyone is welcome, no matter how much they plan to commit to volunteering.”

The SOS Shelter provides secure and supportive surroundings for victims of domestic violence and their families.

“They offer advocacy services, counseling, and they help to educate the community on domestic violence,” D’Avino said.

Domestic violence is not only physical abuse.

“It is emotional, economical and psychological,” D’Avino said. “Anyone can be a victim, no matter what race or socioeconomic status.”

According to the Crime Victims Assistance Center on Binghamton’s Web site, more than 2,000 Broome County women are victims of domestic violence each year. Domestic violence can include the abuser preventing a spouse from getting or keeping a job, using coercion or threats, or using jealousy to justify the development of controlling behavior.

“Once you attend this training, you can volunteer as an individual at the shelter or with a group,” D’Avino said. “Along with the Women’s Student Union, we are striving to organize some projects to do with the shelter to get as many people as possible involved.”

Activities include spending time with the women and children in the shelter and helping organize or clean.

D’Avino has been volunteering with the SOS Shelter for over a year.

“It has been a great and rewarding experience,” she said.

Bridget Condon, the co-public relations officer, will also be on-hand during Saturday’s training.

“I think the SOS Shelter training is an extremely important event and a great opportunity for students,” she said. “This training gives students an opportunity to directly affect the lives of women and children at the shelter.”

Volunteering, D’Avino said, is a great way to educate yourself on domestic violence issues and to get involved.

The shelter, said Condon, is an amazing part of the community and a vital resource for women.

“It is so important for students to support and be involved with the shelter,” she said.

All are welcome to the interactive training on Saturday, March 28, at noon in the WSU office, room B07 in the New University Union. Any student interested is welcome. For more information, contact Nicole D’Avino at Ndavino1@gmail.com.