Crisis Center San Mateo County - California

The YFES Crisis Center staff knows that the agency simply could not operate without our dedicated volunteers. We greatly value each of them. We do everything we can to make sure that your investment of time and energy will be well worth it. You can expect an incredible learning experience, personal growth, and the satisfaction of knowing that you're providing a valuable community service.

We know that our training is extensive and can be challenging. But, given the nature of crisis work, the training is critical. Attendance at all classes is required unless makeup sessions are arranged in advance (exceptions for illness or other emergencies can be made on a case-by-case basis).

Training includes five intense classroom sessions, three "observation" shifts on the crisis lines and two 4-hour "active" shifts on the crisis lines (each shift is 4 hours). Classroom instruction typically falls on two weeknights per week (for 3-4 weeks) as well as one Saturday morning. "Observation" and "Active" shifts are scheduled by the trainee and run concurrent to classroom training.

All phone counselors are fingerprinted and are required to submit proof of a recent TB test.

Here's how some of our volunteers describe their role as a Phone Counselor:

"Sometimes I'm not sure what to say, but I quickly discovered that listening and caring is enough. It's being there with another person that matters."

"Volunteering for the Crisis Center is the most important move I've made in years. I've gained confidence and grown tremendously from this experience."

"I wasn't sure at first if this was for me, but the training was excellent and prepared me for any situation that came up. I've now become a much better listener and use my new skills in every part of my life."

A volunteer Phone Counselor should be at least 21 years of age, self-aware and open-minded. We encourage people of all walks of life to apply. Our intent is that any person in crisis may feel comfortable calling us and will receive the support they need.

Being a Phone Counselor is not for everyone. After an informal interview, individuals will be accepted for training on the basis of their interpersonal skills and their ability to make a serious volunteer commitment. Previous experience as a volunteer or in the field of counseling is not necessary.

We ask our volunteers for a one-year commitment, to serve on the phones for one 4-hour shift per week. Phone shifts are scheduled one month at a time, and we usually have a good amount of flexibility with our scheduling. We seek volunteers who also have a fair amount of flexibility in their schedules.

Crisis Center staff will provide as much support as possible during training and throughout your time as a volunteer. We keep records of how many hours are volunteered, and are happy to write letters of recommendation for school credit, job advancement, etc.