Name: Joseph
Town of residence: Shrewsbury
Which UWTC program(s) have you volunteered for? Call2Talk
How Long Have You Been Volunteering here? 1 year
Do you volunteer regularly or occasionally? Regularly
Why did you decide to volunteer?
I was immediately interested after hearing an interview with a volunteer at a crisis/suicide line. I valued the opportunity to relieve suffering and have a direct impact on improving individual lives. I work in the healthcare field, and frequently communicate with distressed patients. I thought the communication skills from my professional life would translate very well to Call2Talk. I appreciated the opportunity to make the world a better place, while simultaneously gaining new skills and perspectives that would help me grow personally and professionally.
How did you decide to volunteer with us?
I discovered Call2Talk while researching crisis and suicide lines online. I went to an information session and found everyone to be very supportive, open, and outgoing. It is obvious that everyone at Call2Talk is invested in your success and wellbeing.
What do you do when you volunteer?
I provide support to callers who are in emotional crisis, suicidal, or simply need a friendly voice to talk to.
How does volunteering make you feel?
Great! It is very satisfying to see how much you can improve someone’s life simply by really listening to them and seeing the world from their perspective. It makes you appreciate the strength other people have to keep moving forward, despite all the obstacles in the way.
Why do you think it's important for people to volunteer?
Helping others never hurt anybody! Gaining new perspectives and interacting with people you normally wouldn't is an added bonus.
If you work, can you tell us where and what you do?
I work as a retail Pharmacist.
Tell us a story of a time when you knew your volunteering made a difference:
I have had multiple occasions where I would start a call with someone who is so distraught and crying that they can barely speak, and by the end we are both laughing and cracking jokes. I immediately saw the impact from my volunteering was a direct cause in greatly improving someone’s day.
What's your best advice for someone interested in volunteering?
Just jump in and start the process. Everyone is very supportive, and it is easier than you think.