Volunteer Crisis Counselors
When it was formed in 1969, the Crisisline was a volunteer program and volunteers continue to be at the core of our work. If you are a good listener and want to help others, sign up for this life-changing experience as a volunteer crisis counselor.
We offer on-going comprehensive training for volunteers throughout the year. Counselors commit to a year of service on the Crisisline following the training. Counselors receive regular supervision, support, and additional educational opportunities. The Crisisline schedule enables people with a variety of personal and work schedules to participate.
Crisisline Counselors learn:
- how to help people during times of crisis
- how to listen and respond effectively in all areas of life
- how to prevent suicide and other violent behavior
- how loss and trauma affect people
- how mental illness impacts life
- about other problems of living and how to help people manage them
- about community resources for the wide variety of human needs
- how to manage their own stress
Crisisline Counselors gain:
- skills and knowledge which improve interactions with partners, children, colleagues, students, friends, etc.
- experience which strengthens resumes and applications. Students, people entering the work force, and those contemplating a career change find that SPCS volunteer work is esteemed by graduate schools and employers.
- membership in a diverse group of dedicated and dynamic people.
- purpose which builds confidence, competence, and joy in living.
Minimum Qualifications to train to be a Crisisline Counselor:
- Maturity (typically 20 years old to 100 years old)
- Ability to listen with compassion and open-mindedness
The mission of Suicide Prevention & Crisis Service is to promote constructive responses to crisis and trauma, and to prevent violence to self and others through direct support and community education. SPCS is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, a United Way Agency, and a regional member of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
