National Runaway Switchboard Seeks Volunteers

When I first heard that the National Runaway Switchboard was looking for volunteers, I was surprised to learn that it's headquarters is in Chicago. Located at 3080 North Lincoln Avenue in Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood, The National Runaway Switchboard is a place where five of my co-workers currently volunteer.

The Crisis Line Worker volunteer opportunity, which is only available to Chicago volunteers, fields over 300 calls each day. Volunteers help callers find shelters or help them make arrangements to return back to their homes. Another volunteer opportunity that is available is being a Street Team Member. When I volunteered as a Street Team Member, I helped hand out flyers at stores, schools and train stations. You won't be required to adhere to a strict schedule so you can choose your own hours.

When I was in college, I volunteered in the Work Study program, because I was interested in pursuing a career in social work, and I was also able to work on the crisis line. You should know that before you sign up to be a Crisis Line Worker, you'll need to go through a 40 hour training program. The extensive training program includes classroom training and trains volunteers how to respond to urgent calls.

If you want more information on how you can volunteer for the National Runaway Switchboard, call 773-880-9860 or visit their website.

Sources: Personal Experience
National Runaway Switchboard
http://www.nrscrisisline.org/get_involved/volunteer.html