Suicide Prevention Volunteer

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY for caring individuals to volunteer time answering a 24-Hour Suicide Prevention Hotline, known as 988, operated by North Central Mental Health Services.

North Central Mental Health Services, Inc. operates the largest 988 call center in Ohio.

This is a non-paid position requiring individuals to be physically present on site.

Each new class of volunteers learns how to help those in our community while also making new friendships by connecting through a common goal. The in-depth training takes place over 13 sessions after which well-trained volunteers commit to completing a 6 hour shift on a weekly basis for a period of 6 months. Please contact the Coordinator at 614-299-6600 ext. 2073, Assistant Coordinator at 614-299-6600 ext. 2026 or at sps@ncmhs.org.

VOLUNTEER HOURS:

• Six hours a week for six months (adults) OR
• Four hours a week for six months (teens) Or
• As approved by supervisor

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES & TASKS POST TRAINING:

• Answer the Suicide Prevention phone lines: conduct suicide risk assessments, provide appropriate intervention or information to callers, and make referrals and other linkages to other resources as necessary.
• Participate in SPS information systems for program evaluation.
• Complete reports and time sheets.
• Attend Suicide Prevention Services In-service meetings as requested.
• Other related duties.

RESULTS: Assist callers in crisis by providing short term crisis intervention and referral. Help callers regain personal control of their lives and find alternatives to suicide.

QUALIFICATIONS: Completion of application process. Successful completion of SPS training program. Demonstrated maturity and responsibility. Knowledge of policy and procedures of North Central Mental Health Services in general and the SPS program in particular. Ability to assess suicide risk and provide crisis intervention. Ability to fulfill a six month commitment to the SPS program.

BENEFITS: Crisis intervention skills, improved communication skills, knowledge of suicidology, the satisfaction that comes from helping others. Also provides in-service training opportunities, volunteer recognition, academic and employment references.