Become one of the caring people who answer the call.
Becoming a call-taking volunteer involves a commitment to complete 50 hours of specialized training delivered online through Zoom, and 12 hours of in-person training.
The training prepares you to listen compassionately, respond to people experiencing emotional distress, understand the role and boundaries of a distress-line volunteer, and connect callers with appropriate community resources when needed.
Help provide leadership and direction for Telecare.
Board members meet once a month for approximately two hours. In addition to attending monthly meetings, members may contribute their expertise to specific projects and committees.
Experience in areas such as finance, governance, fundraising, communications, human resources, legal, are particularly valuable, but a willingness to contribute and learn is just as important.
There are many ways to support Telecare beyond answering calls or serving on the board.
Whether you have experience in administration, fundraising, communications, events, technology, or something completely different, your skills can make a difference. We welcome people who want to contribute their time, talents, and ideas.
Whatever your skills or interests, we can find a place for you at Telecare.
You don't have to choose just one way to support Telecare.
You can volunteer your time, organize a fundraiser, support us through your business, join our Board, help with an event, introduce us to a community partner, or simply help spread the word about our service.
Whatever you bring, there's a place for you at Telecare.
Volunteers must be at least 18 to volunteer with Telecare as a call-taker or board member. However, fundraisers can be of any age! We welcome people from a variety of backgrounds and life experiences who are committed to helping others.
The training includes ~50 hours of specialized training delivered online through Zoom, and 12 hours of in-person training.
No. You do not need to have a professional background in mental health, counselling, or social services. Telecare provides the training you need to become a volunteer listener.
No. You do not need to have a professional background in mental health, counselling, or social services. Telecare provides the training you need to become a volunteer listener.
The training fee for volunteer call-takers is $50. This covers both the 50-hour Zoom training, as well as the in-person training. However, if you do not complete the training, your payment will be refunded to you.
Volunteers can commit to scheduled shifts based on their availability, in conjuction with Telecare's operational needs and their availability.
Volunteers are encouraged to book at least one 4-hour shift per month. We understand that volunteers have other commitments, and we work with them to establish a schedule that is manageable and reliable.
Yes. After training is complete, you can volunteer from home as long as your space is private.
Yes. Prior to the in-person training sessions, you will need to obtain a vulnerable sector check. Our board will help you through the steps of obtaining it.
After submitting an application, prospective volunteers will go through Telecare's screening and selection process. Successful applicants will then be provided with information about upcoming training and the next steps toward becoming a Telecare volunteer.