Profile Spotlight: Sharon Kolleth
Sharon Kolleth is a volunteer advocate on our 24/7/365 hotline.
Why did you get involved with The Blue Bench? When I turned 50, I had this sinking feeling that I had something more to offer my community, but I didn’t know what it was. After hearing about The Blue Bench three times in a short period, I figured the universe was trying to tell me something - and it was time to listen. It was so easy to apply and once I met Jamie (Volunteer Coordinator at The Blue Bench), I knew I had found my purpose. I’ve always been a good listener and empathy comes very natural to me. I love that I am able to put those things to good use on the hotline. Plus, it is very rewarding helping people in crisis. I actually feel honored to be there for our clients. There is nothing better than hanging up the phone knowing you have empowered someone and made a difference in that moment and maybe their life. I am also very passionate about educating young people on consent. When someone I love was assaulted a few years ago, I was shocked to learn that the perpetrator had no idea they had actually raped my loved one. My loved one actually felt bad for them. Education is key. The more we talk about it, the more people will know. If just one tiny thing I say stays in someone’s brain and they pause to think, it’s a step in the right direction. I love the fact that slowly we are changing the narrative around sexual assault and maybe, in time, we will take away the guilt and shame of the survivors.
In your own words, what does The Blue Bench do? The Blue Bench helps survivors and loved ones of sexual assault. Our hotline is a safe place to call when someone is confused about how they are feeling or even in full crisis. No judgement ever. Our volunteers are all very different but have the same end goal. To help, to believe and to support. The Blue Bench offers therapy for survivors and can also help explain medical and legal options.
What is one thing you would like the community to know about The Blue Bench? The one thing I would like the community to know about The Blue Bench is that the staff and volunteers are truly some of the most empathetic and caring people around. They are all so passionate about their work and are always striving to make a difference. Everyone I’ve come in contact with at The Blue Bench is determined to help survivors and determined to make a difference in the conversation around sexual assault. You can hear it in their voices. This means something. Their work is changing lives. It is critical. Nobody thinks of this as a job - it is a calling and shows.
