I want to help....?

Question

I want to help people on a suicide hotline. I am in New York City and want to know if there are any qualifications that are needed to do this and if this is a paid position or if it is volunteer. How do I go about doing this.?

Answer 1

Wow! How compassionate are you?! Caring for people in a crisis situation is a very tough job, but is also extremely rewarding!

Most crisis centers are volunteer only basis, however your area's center will tell you if there's any stipend and/or career opportunities available. Volunteering is a good way to get your foot in the door if you are interested in crisis intervention as a career.

I would encourage you to talk with your local volunteer center or United Way. They will direct you as yo how to get involved, and what screenings, etc. are necessary.

Where I live, you do need to submit to a background check, and you have to attend a series of trainings that totals about 30-40 hours pertaining to how to handle the calls when they come in, as well as referral protocol, etc. There are also routine inservice trainings from time to time to keep volunteers abreast of any new services/trainings, etc.

You can also check with your local Help Hotline (in most places it's 211 from a landline), and they might be able to refer you - but I would only call that number as a very last resort, as that generally is the line given to people in crisis.

Best of luck to you. I hope you find your experience rewarding beyond words!!