Make a Difference in Your Community!

Are you looking for a rewarding way to help others while developing invaluable skills? Join our compassionate community and become a volunteer Crisis Line Responder with the Vancouver Island Crisis Society!

Our comprehensive six-week training program equips you with the tools to provide support to those in crisis. We are proud to be accredited by the American Association of Suicidology, ensuring you receive the highest standard of training.

This role is ideal for dedicated individuals passionate about helping others and making a difference. You’ll provide the same level of care as our staff responders, supporting Service Users across our network of Crisis Line Numbers.

Important: This role involves supporting people in crisis, including those experiencing suicidal thoughts. It requires emotional resilience, active listening skills, and the ability to remain calm in high-stress situations.

Steps to Apply

1. Email resume to info@vicrisis.ca
2. Participate in a friendly interview.
3. Attend an Observation Shift in our Call Centre to see our work in action.
4. Complete a Criminal Record Check (Vulnerable Sector) and a Reference Check.
5. Pay a $20 membership fee. via etransfer@vicrisis.ca (let us know if you wish to pay in another way)
6. Please note that volunteers must be at least 19 years old by the end of the training session, and that they must be legally permitted to work in Canada if they choose to apply for employment opportunities.

Ready to Train? Here's How!

Next Training Session

• When: Our next training session begins on March 2, 2026. Please view the detailed training schedule.
• Where: Vancouver Island Crisis Society, Nanaimo (with the option to train via Zoom or in person)
• Note: Volunteers can then support others from our Crisis Line Centre or remotely.

Is volunteering as a Crisis Line Responder right for you?

As a Crisis Line Responder, you'll commit to:

• Demonstrating dedication and reliability by volunteering 20 hours per month (flexible shifts to fit your personal life and schedule.)
• Attending monthly team meetings for connection and growth
• A 3-month supported probation period to help you determine if this is the right fit

What You Can Expect

• Support those in crisis, including conversations about suicide: You will provide a compassionate ear to crisis line users who may be experiencing suicidal thoughts, distress, or other difficult topics. This work can be emotionally challenging but is profoundly impactful.
• Confidentiality is paramount: You must be committed to maintaining the highest level of confidentiality in all aspects of this role.
• Manage stressful situations: You’ll develop the ability to remain calm under pressure, manage emotionally charged conversations, and provide steady, empathetic support.
• A supportive, team-focussed environment that celebrates diversity, culture, and orientation.
• Life-changing work that helps those in need while developing your listening, communication, and crisis intervention skills.
• Ongoing coaching and growth opportunities to help you build confidence and excel in your role.
• Career-building experience: Enhance your communication, crisis response, and risk assessment skills – many of our volunteers have gone on to successful careers in police work, counseling, case management, and other helping professions.
• Eligibility for paid staff positions with demonstrated reliability and competency

Why Volunteer with Us?

• Make an impact in your community.
• Gain valuable experience in mental health support, communication, and crisis intervention.
• Build a foundation for your career in helping professions like counselling, social work, and law enforcement.
• Learn to handle high-stress situations with composure and care.
• Enjoy a flexible schedule that fits your life.
• Connect with a compassionate team and grow both personally and professionally.

Apply Today

If you’re ready to make a meaningful difference
and be part of a team that truly cares,
we’d love to hear from you
Email: info@vicrisis.ca

We celebrate diversity and encourage volunteers
from all backgrounds, cultures, and
orientations to join us