General
2-1-1 Big Bend operates Helpline 2-1-1 (crisis, information, and resource referral hotline).and Lifeline (national suicide hotline). Volunteer Hotline Counselors provide callers with free, confidential counseling, crisis intervention, information and referrals.
Minimum Qualifications
Applicants should possess a motivation to help people, a non-judgmental attitude and an ability to empathize, and agree to complete a 200-hour volunteer commitment. Applicants must also satisfactorily complete the application and screening process.
Applicants should possess basic computer skills including the ability to type and use a keyboard and mouse. Applicants should possess the ability to view/read printed resources on a computer, in books or other printed materials. Applicants should possess the ability to use two telephones simultaneously to communicate with clients and supervisors.
Applicants must be fluent in English (including speaking, writing and comprehending). This includes the ability to establish a relationship with callers, identify their problems, reflect their feelings and explore their alternatives. Because many of our services are provided via telephone this may require the ability to identify subtle inferences about a caller’s situation, thus a solid command of the English language is required.
Training and Supervision
Volunteers go through 75 hours of initial training and then have supervised phone room training before becoming cleared to answer the hotlines. The Coordinator of Volunteers and Off-Site Supervisors directly supervise Volunteer Counselors.
Training classes will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 7pm-9:30pm, from September 19th through November 21st.
Are you interested? We will be hosting Information and Interview sessions via Zoom on:
Tues., 1/16/2024 7:00 PM
Thu., 1/18/2024 7:00 PM
We will be hosting in-person Information and Interview sessions at the FSU Dunlap Success Center on:
Tue., 1/23/2024 7:00 PM
Thu., 1/25/2024 7:00 PM
Can't attend? No problem! Fill out an application by Friday, 1/26/2024, and we will reach out to conduct an interview!
