If, like me, you have a little more time on your hands when your kids leave for college and you are looking to fill it with something worthwhile, I’d love to suggest that you consider volunteering for the Crisis Text Line:
http://www.crisistextline.org
It’s a nonprofit that operates nationwide. It works like a phone hotline but people in crisis (mostly but not all teenagers) text 741-741 and chat via text with a trained counselor who helps the texter sort out his or her situation and options. Volunteer counselors go through 34 hours of online training over six weeks and, once trained, they communicate with texters on their computers at home via an online platform. The training teaches counselors how to respond to any and all texters’ issues and there are professional supervisors who are always there and happy to help. Also, you get a great deal of assistance and support from fellow counselors. Once you’re trained, you commit to giving 4 hours a week for a year. Because we are available 24/7, it’s easy to fit your work with CTL into your schedule.
Here’s the website to volunteer:
http://www.crisistextline.org/join-our-efforts/volunteer/
The whole thing–training and volunteering–is online and can be done anywhere you have a secure web connection and a little privacy.
I have been on the platform for a month now. It’s been incredibly satisfying to have a “conversation” with someone in crisis and, after 45 minutes, the texter says, “I feel so much better! Thank you.”
Many counselors are undergraduate or graduate students or early in their careers in the helping professions. It’s a great learning experience and resume builder, in case you have kids or friends in that situation. The basic requirement is to be 18 years old and pass a background check. Two recommendations are required.
Please feel free to contact me if you’d like more information.