How to Volunteer at a Crisis Hotline

If you are looking for volunteer work where you can make a difference in someone's life, consider volunteering for a crisis hotline. People in desperate trouble may feel they have no where to turn. When someone calls a crisis hotline he is reaching out for someone to help. Volunteers can provide that assistance.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Understand what crisis hotline workers do. People who are feeling overwhelmed with a situation may turn to a crisis hotline. Volunteers may provide referrals to services, an ear to listen or they may have to take steps to prevent a suicide.
2. Determine what type of crisis line you would like to lend your services. There are domestic abuse hotlines and suicide hotlines. Crisis hotlines may be available for victims of sexual assault or other violent crimes. Some communities may have crisis hotlines that handle a variety of calls dealing with numerous issues.
3. Call local non-profit and county agencies. They may have hotlines that need volunteers. If the agency you call does not run a hotline, ask they know anyone who does. Locate other crisis hotlines by looking in the yellow pages of your phone book or checking with your local volunteer center.
4. Apply to be a volunteer. Depending on the type of agency you start with there may be an application and an interview. Fingerprints may be required for a criminal background check. Agencies which run crisis hotlines will have different polices for their volunteers.
5. Go through training. All crisis hotline volunteers must go through some type of training. There may be classroom lectures, speakers and mock calls to train you to handle different situations. You may work with another experienced volunteer until you gain confidence.
6. Start working. Remember you must stay calm. Be empathetic but do not become completely emotionally involved in a call. You should stay focused on your training and think clearly. If you are unsure how to handle a call or need assistance ask a supervisor or an experienced volunteer for help.

Tips & Warnings

• Be aware that working on a crisis hotline can be emotionally draining. You may hear tragic stories that are tough to deal with.
• Keep in mind you may not be able to help everyone who calls. There is only so much you can do. Use your training and do your best.