The Rowan Center - A Sexual Assault Resource Agency

Meet Cody Baird (she/her), the February 2023 Volunteer of the Month

Home 9 Blog 9 Meet Cody Baird (she/her), the February 2023 Volunteer of the Month
Cody Baird poses sitting in a chair next to her dog.

Cody is a student of Public Policy & Nonprofit Leadership at Harvard Kennedy School.

What is your role at The Rowan Center?

I am a volunteer advocate at The Rowan Center. 

What drew you to The Rowan Center?

I am interested in the intersection of policy and sexual violence, including the development and implementation of more empowering and effective trauma-informed services for survivors of human trafficking and gender-based violence. I’ve seen the work that the Connecticut Alliance to End Sexual Violence does on this front and wanted to volunteer at my local branch to understand the community-based efforts happening around us. That led me to The Rowan Center.

What keeps you at The Rowan Center?

Knowing how much my support means to victims going through a traumatic event—and working with the amazing team at The Rowan Center!

What do you wish people knew about The Rowan Center? 

That sexual violence happens far too often. People should also know that The Rowan Center has wonderful people who are ready and able to help with support, knowledge, and resources.

What are your hobbies?

Cooking; walking my dog, Moose; and anything animal related!

What are you learning? 

First, how important it is to surround yourself with people who make you feel seen, safe, and supported—and how important it is to be that person for someone else. Second, bureaucracy and friction (even amongst well-meaning people) can hinder positive change in the community.