The Sexual Violence Center is seeking dynamic presenters for the Building Bridges Conference 2024, to…
#MeetTheTeamTuesday: Shannon Mahedy
It’s our first #MeetTheTeamTuesday of October and we’re introducing our Outreach Advocate, Shannon Mahedy.
What does advocacy mean to you?
I was talking with a friend about advocacy recently, and she framed it as acting as “a conduit for healing”. I really resonate with that framework. As an advocate, I try to create a safe, welcoming, and honest space for people to work on healing from violence. I am there to listen, affirm, provide options, and give information while understanding that the victim/survivor is fully capable of making their own decisions. Healing looks different for everyone, and I never tell folks how to heal or what to do.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
When I leave a one-on-one counseling session or end a crisis line call, and the victim/survivor says that they feel (even slightly) better, calmer, or lighter after talking to me, I feel like I’ve made an impact and assisted someone on their healing journey. Those moments are so special, and I feel so honored that folks trust me with their stories. I also really like collaborating with my coworkers on outreach projects and creating engaging and accessible content for our social media accounts.
What fashion trend do you wish would come back in style?
Velvet! I adore velvet, and I think that it’s timeless, but I don’t know if it’s currently in style. It honestly should be! You can’t go wrong with a black velvet dress.
📸 Bailey Sears Photography
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