Name: Liz Newman

Residence: Delray Beach

Birthplace: Orange, N.J.

Career: Acupuncture physician who practices Chinese medicine

Organization: Aid to Victims of Domestic Abuse, Inc. promotes violence-free relationships and social change by offering alternative choices to end violence and domestic abuse. Located in Delray Beach, AVDA provides a state-certified domestic violence center that offers a comprehensive array of services for all victims of domestic violence, including a 24-hour crisis hotline, emergency and transitional housing, advocacy, counseling and support to help people live violence-free and self-sufficient lives.

How long have you been volunteering there?

Over one year.

Why do you volunteer?

I volunteer because I love to be of service, and I feel blessed to have the ability to serve, and I love people.

Why did you choose this organization?

I had been thinking of AVDA for a long time. Before I went away to school to be an acupuncture physician, I had a dream to serve women. I wanted to open a center and teach young women how they can be the best they can be, and how they can take their power back and teach young women they are responsible for their lives and teach them about self-empowerment. When I came back from graduate school, I was thinking of volunteering with AVDA and a patient of mine happened to be good friends with a high-level person at AVDA and she connected us.

Describe your volunteer role.

When I first started, I went with a topic and sheet of questions and ideas for discussion such as trusting yourself, being responsible, acceptance, gratitude and hope. I would bring some spiritual and thought-provoking books, and we’d discuss them. I then decided to bring adult coloring books because coloring while learning aids in the learning process. They color while I present a topic, which are about all self-empowerment and self-improvement. I teach the women to know what they are thinking because if we don’t know what we are thinking then are our actions are random. The more conscious our actions, the more positive our results.

What are your goals when you volunteer?

To get one ‘ah-ha’ moment a night, and to try to make it as simple, succinct and brief as possible. When one person says I get it, then my job is done. Also, this is what I tell the women/young ladies at the beginning of my class: ‘The goal is to get so powerful inside that nothing that happens can disturb you.’ They were somewhat surprised and said; ‘Is that even possible?’ I explained that by being present and quiet and aware of their thoughts they can consciously choose in each moment an action or word that will lead toward a fulfilling, purposeful and peaceful life.

What challenges have you faced?

Getting everyone’s attention. There are a lot of people coming and going. Also, sometimes someone will only be in the class one or two times so I want to make a good point each time I am there. Hopefully, I, or the material, has made a good impression.

What does your organization need?

We are currently in need of baby formula, toiletries, Pullups sizes 3 and 4, household, children and adults clothing, bed sheets, towels, cleaning products, laundry detergent, fabric softener, bleach, cleaning spray and wipes and feminine hygiene products. AVDA also has many volunteer opportunities.

For information about volunteering, or to drop off donations, call 561-265-3797, ext. 100.

Are any special events coming up?

On Feb. 21 the 10th annual Heart of a Woman Luncheon will feature Lily Rose Lee, formerly Michelle Knight, one of the three women abducted by Cleveland kidnapper Ariel Castro from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Boca Raton Resort & Club.

Is there a specific memorable moment that stands out to you during your time volunteering?

Those ‘a-ha’ moments, the look on their face when they have their ‘a-ha’ moment. Each time I’m there when I see the look on someone’s face where I know they get it, they get they have a choice and they remember they have the power to choose.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

I do it for myself because I love it so much, it’s the highlight of my week. I’ve become close to the women there, and I’m planning on doing advanced training so I can be more involved. It’s really rewarding. We’re all equal. Because of the situation they are in, it doesn’t mean they are lesser or I’m better than they are; I remind them of that every time I go. No matter where they have come from in their lives, we’re in this together.

Visit avdaonline.org or call 561-265-3797, 855-288-2832 for donation pick up and 800-355-8547 for the 24-hour crisis hotline.

If you know a Palm Beach County resident who deserves recognition for volunteer work, email .