Dorinda Hackworth, of Dowagiac, is a recent graduate of Ross Beatty High School who is currently studying social work at St. Mary’s College in South Bend.

Hackworth has been a longtime volunteer with Domestic And Sexual Abuse Services (DASAS), which provides counseling and support for families victimized by domestic abuse in Cass, Van Buren and St. Joseph counties.

Dorinda Hackworth

How did you get involved with DASAS?

After my mom (Deborah, director of volunteers with the organization) started volunteering there, I started volunteering there. It’s a family thing.

How long have you been volunteering there?

At least 10 years.

What were some of the responsibilities you had?

I helped clean the shelter, I helped during meetings. I helped out with the Walk a Mile, finding people to participate in it. I’ve sold T-shirts, I help give out the shoes for the men to go walking; things like that.

What was a big reason you liked working there?

One of the big reasons I liked working there is because I’ve seen people get hurt. It sounds a little cliché, but love shouldn’t hurt. It’s one of the reasons I like to volunteer there.

Are there any other places where you volunteer?

I tutored for years at Cass. I actually just signed up to tutor at South Bend Community Schools while I’m in South Bend. I still like to give back to the community and I love working with little kids.

Is there anything you want to say to encourage people to volunteer?

It makes you feel better on the inside, to know you’re making a difference, to know you’re giving back to people who have helped you, even people you don’t know. Knowing that you made even a part of their day easier is a great experience.

People interested in volunteering or donating to DASAS can contact their office in Three Rivers at (269) 273-6154. The organization also has a hotline for people to call if they need assistance, 800-828-2023.

If you know a volunteer worthy of recognition, nominate him or her as the Volunteer of the Week by calling Craig Haupert, community editor, at craig.haupert@leaderpub.com.