Need help now? We are ready to talk when you are
Sometimes a heartfelt conversation is powerful enough to pull someone back from the edge of despair.
Join our team of well-trained, empathetic volunteer responders and show a hand of kindness by connecting with those in distress and offering them the support they need.
All volunteers are required to complete a set of intensive training prior to taking on any client calls. They will also receive professional support and in-service education sessions.
We do not require any specific educational/professional qualifications, however there are certain criteria our volunteers are expected to meet:
At least 18 years of age
A kind and caring heart, patience, empathy and a desire to help those who are struggling in the community
Compassionate and able to provide listening support without judging
Able to accept and respect differences of opinion, values, views and beliefs that may be different from your own
Able to complete online in-class training, supplementary training materials (i.e., e-book, videos), and a mentoring shift with on-the-phones coaching
Able to commit to 1, 4- hour shift/week for 1 year
Available for shifts scheduled between 9-5 Monday to Friday
Agree to complete the police verification form given by DCGT, or submission of a recent police records check from a volunteer organization (i.e. within 6 months of validity period)
Agree to abide by and sign DCOGT’s confidentiality agreement
Payment of a non-refundable training fee
DCGT provides comprehensive Outbound Program training that prepares volunteers for making outgoing calls for each of our outbound programs. Training takes place both online and in person throughout the year.
DCGT uses adult learning practices and incorporates lectures, role-play, scenarios, exercises and supplementary reading into our training program. Post in-class instruction, responders will receive between 4-8 hours of one-to-one on-the-line coaching. All training, coaching and reading assignments are mandatory. DCGT’s training prepares you for your volunteer role, and, is designed in such a way that all the skills learned, and knowledge gained can be applied to your day-to-day life – personally and professionally.
Curriculum Highlights:
Active Listening and Solution Focused Conversations
Diversity and Cultural Competency
Mental Health
Abuse (including Elder Abuse)
Crisis and Suicide Assessment and Intervention
Peer Support
Mandatory supplementary readings are assigned for each module. Further, additional supplementary readings are also provided to help you grow your knowledge in preparation for supporting Outbound clients.
Help Others
Give back to the community
Help those with mental health issues cope, and feel less stigmatized
Change peoples’ lives (including your own)
Connect to Your Community
Increase knowledge and understanding of prevalent issues and challenges faced by many in our community; developing greater social awareness
Feel more socially connected to others and develop a stronger sense of belonging
Improve Interpersonal And Communication Skills
Develop new listening and communication skills you can use in all aspects of your life (i.e. both professionally and personally)
Improve your understanding of your own personal strengths, values and beliefs
Develop patience and an empathetic approach to dealing with those in crisis