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Here are some suggestions: <br />o lf the client is hard of hearing, but can hear to some extent, try to separate the <br />client from a noisy and distracting environment. <br />o lf the information to be provided the individual is lengthy, offer it in a written <br />format. lf there are numerous questions to be asked, write them out with <br />space for the client to complete them. <br />o Post general information in numerous locations. <br />r Have workers carry paper and pens and provide them to other clients who may <br />be communicating with the client who is hearing impaired. <br />When it comes to addictions, while you may be able to offer valuable support to <br />someone who wants to overcome their problem, bear in mind that not all people will <br />readily accept help or even admit to having a problem. You are not expected to be a <br />substance abuse counselor. Do not assume that someone has a drug or alcohol <br />problem just because they may look that way. <br />Sometimes people can behave unpredictably when they drink or take drugs. Their <br />moods and actions can become erratic, which at best can be embarrassing or <br />frustrating for friends and family, but at worst can be-come aggressive or violent. <br />Don't tolerate abuse of any nature, whether physical or emotional - you have the right <br />to put your own safety and well-being first. lf a guest becomes violent for any reason, <br />call 911 immediately. <br />lf a person wants to openly talk to you about their problem, lend an ear and support. <br />Resort to your resources guide to find phone numbers that may help them. Lending an <br />ear can be a great comfort to people. <br />Remember, even if you have addiction counselingtraining, you are not in a counselor <br />capacity at the shelter and while you may be able to share some personal stories, they <br />need professional help and guidance outside of the shelter setting. <br />7. Workins with the Media <br />It is always important to maintain a good relationship with the media. The press can <br />help us get the story out by telling people where the shelter is open and where it is <br />located. lt is not the role of the staff at a shelter to actively seek out the media for <br />interviews. ln general, all media outreach should be coordinated in advance. <br />However, shelter staff may encounter the media while at the shelter. As far as the <br />media is concerned, anyone volunteering at the shelter may be perceived as a shelter