Volunteer Spotlight — Madi Fischer

Madi Fischer, YWCA Volunteer

The YWCA would like to express our sincere gratitude to Madison (Madi) Fischer. Madi completed 40 hours of advocacy training this past August and now serves as a Volunteer Shelter Advocate. She has experience working with Spokane youth and has worked to help educate young people about the importance of compassion and social responsibility. She also has a passion for working with women and children who are survivors of domestic violence and sexual trauma, and we are so grateful for her support and dedication toward the YWCA. We wanted to know why Madi decided to volunteer her time with us and asked her a few questions–her answers have been edited for length and clarity.

How did you get involved with YWCA Spokane, and what was your first impression of the organization? I used to work with the YMCA, but my passion is for helping women who are being mistreated. I learned about the YWCA’s services that focus on assisting women and eliminating racism and knew I had to get involved. I found the perfect volunteer position [as a Volunteer Shelter Advocate]! I love what the YWCA Spokane does for the community because everyone here really cares about helping people.

Why are you supporting YWCA Spokane as opposed to other organizations that work to eliminate domestic violence and support low-income women and families? Because of my previous experience working for the YMCA and knowing the two are related, I knew that the YWCA would be an organization I could support because of the name they carry within the community. I value how the YWCA stresses the importance of working together as a team and going above and beyond to stand up for people and against injustice, and I really believe that Spokane sees and values that.

What do you wish other people knew about YWCA Spokane? Everyone that works here is insanely dedicated to doing what they can to look out for people–especially the ones that don’t seem to have a voice. They honestly do defend the defenseless and work hard to fight for justice, which is what everyone needs!

What would you tell someone who is considering volunteering for YWCA Spokane? Do it! The people you will meet and learn from at the YWCA have a contagious amount of kindness and compassion that everyone needs. It is SO worth it to volunteer with something that has so much success and desire for helping people!

What do you enjoy doing when you’re not working or volunteering? I love hanging out with my husband and our rescue dog as much as I can. 🙂