Schamonda Allen, You Are The Network!
Schamonda Allen, You Are The Network!
The first in a series to highlight individuals who are passionate about the fight against domestic violence.
We consider any person dedicated to ending domestic violence in Central Indiana and beyond part of The Network. This could include people who work directly with victims, survivors or perpetrators of domestic violence. It could be a person who was touched by domestic violence, or it could simply be a person who is eager about the cause and demonstrates this through his or her actions and beliefs.
In this new series, we will highlight individuals in The Network and share their stories. Without further ado…
Q&A with Schamonda Allen:
Schamonda Allen is a compassionate, kind, intelligent, charismatic woman and a member of Domestic Violence Network’s Advocate’s Group. A graduate from IU School of Social Work, Schamonda has long been part of The Network and has always displayed an unrelenting passion to helping others.
What do you do to combat domestic violence?
I am a Family Support Specialist for the Marion County Public Defender Agency Juvenile CHINS/TPR division. In this role, I strive to:
R-reach
E-engage
U-uplift
N-nurture
I-impaired
F-families and
Y-youth
What motivates you in this role?
I have a passion for helping people become self-sufficient, stable and successful. It gives me the opportunity to sow seeds and watch them reap.
What’s your favorite quote or mantra?
I have two:
“Turn your stumbling blocks into stepping stones.”
“I can do ALL things through Christ that strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13
How long have you been a DVN advocate?
I have been a DVN advocate since 2013. At that time, I was an Information & Referral Specialist at IN211.
How has being a DVN advocate helped you in your career?
Being a DVN advocate has helped me in the social work profession to understand domestic violence from various perspectives, not just as a victim or a perpetrator. Yet, working in the criminal justice system, it’s important to learn about victim’s legal rights and protections and how they tie into the criminal justice process. If I don’t know the process, how can I effectively advocate on my client’s behalf? Just because someone has walked in the same shoes doesn’t mean they are the same size!
Thank you, Schamonda, for your work to end domestic violence!
Do you know anyone who is passionate about ending domestic violence? Who would you like to highlight? Email your suggestions!