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Meet Affirmations Volunteer Sabrina Bolvari

In the spotlight is Sabrina Bolvari, a volunteer at Affirmations since September 2016. She is one of many volunteers the community center is incredibly fortunate to have the support of. Bolvari works throughout Affirmations at the Welcome & Resource Desk, and assists with youth programming. Like many other volunteers, Bolvari helps out in the Bayard Rustin Media Center and contributes her time during special events. Read a little more about why volunteering at Affirmations is so important to her.

What made you want to get involved with Affirmations' volunteering program?
I grew up in Ferndale and lived here until I was 19. I've been a part of the LGBTQA+ community since I was 16 years old. I remember performing at Affirmations with our string quartet for one of the grand opening events while I was in high school – that was when I fell in love with the organization; in particular, the resources being offered and the open safe space where you can be yourself! Fast-forward to my internship – choosing time during the first year of my Master's program, and as soon as I saw that Affirmations was a possibility, it was immediately my top choice! Now here I am as a volunteer/therapy intern and I couldn't be happier that I got the chance to gain therapy experience and give back to the community, all in this bright, artful space in my beloved hometown.

Why is volunteering important to you?
I love feeling like I am really helping to connect people with resources and experiences that they have been seeking. While working at the front desk and with clients in therapy here, I have seen countless faces light up with genuine smiles.

Are you involved with any specific groups at Affirmations, aside from volunteering?
Besides volunteering at the Welcome & Resource Desk, I am a part of the counseling program here. Having worked in inpatient psych hospitals for the past three years, I considered starting a mental health awareness support group, as our community faces unique stressors and challenges in this respect. My schedule's been so hectic that I haven't had the opportunity to start it, but it's definitely on the table for me as a possibility after graduation.

What are you passionate about outside of your volunteer work?
Spending time with my family, friends and my partner of almost ten years is a favorite. I also love being out in nature and trying new things like developing aerial silks and rock climbing! Of course, I love to go running, read, write and listen to music.

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