Opportunities From: United Way of East Central Iowa

What is Iowa Crisis Chat?

IowaCrisisChat.org is an online resource for emotional support, operated by CommUnity Crisis Services and Food Bank located in Iowa City. Since launching IowaCrisisChat.org in 2011, the number of chats and texts we receive has surpassed the number of calls we receive on our crisis hotline (over 15,000 chats vs. 10,000 calls annually for FY2020). People of all ages use this service to talk about a variety of concerns. However, the median age is 21 and 80% of chatters are experiencing thoughts of suicide.

Iowa Crisis Chat volunteers also answer chats from the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Why should I volunteer?

Volunteers learn a wide variety of counseling techniques and offer direct support to clients in need. Our training prepares people who have gone on to become therapists, social workers, teachers, lawyers, clergy, doctors, and even genetic counselors. Besides looking good on a resume, volunteering with CommUnity feels good! You get to make a positive difference in the world by connecting with people who are hurting. Even though this is a remote position, you will be supported throughout the process. We have been a volunteer-driven organization for over 50 years, and we have volunteers who have stayed with us for 15+ years because of our positive and supportive culture.

Requirements

Must be 18 years or older. Must be able to work one 3-hour shift per week for a minimum of 9 months. (Does not have to be a consecutive 9 months.) Must have access to a reliable computer and secure internet connection. Must have access to Skype, Zoom, or Google Meets for a one-time interview (sometimes school or public libraries have this capability). Must be able to complete approximately 30 hours of in-person training, 16 hours of Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training, and 2 mentoring shifts. Must successfully complete a background check.

Volunteers are supervised and supported by full-time staff members who are available during every shift. Supervisors are there to provide support and advice, and to handle any escalated situations that might require 911 contact.

The Food Bank at CommUnity Crisis Services and Food Bank provides supplemental food assistance and emergency financial assistance to about 1,000 local families each week. Volunteers stock shelves, assist clients, and help with administrative tasks.

Find out more and sign up for a shift at bit.ly/pepperwoodpantry

Review the following information before arriving at your shift:

Wear comfortable clothing, closed-toed shoes, and dress for the weather. Park in the main plaza parking lot and enter through the door marked "Entrance." Be prepared to lift approx 25 pounds and work both in and out of doors. Minors 13-15 years of age may volunteer, but must be accompanied by a parent/guardian. Minors 16+ may volunteer independently. If you are volunteering with CommUnity Food Bank for the first time, please arrive to your shift 15 minutes early to review procedures and answer COVID-19 screening questions.

Safety, well-being, and access to service are our top priorities. In accordance with local and national COVID-19 precautions, CommUnity has implemented the following safety procedures:

Staff and volunteers will have their temperatures taken upon arrival. Volunteers will be asked COVID-19 screening questions and may be asked to leave if they are exhibiting any symptoms. Masks are required for all staff, volunteers, and clients. Face shields are available for staff and volunteers. Gloves are available for staff and volunteers and are required when handling produce. Front desk volunteers will work behind plexiglass barriers. Hand sanitizer stations will be located throughout the Food Bank. All client seating is spaced 6 feet apart. All shopping carts and pagers will be sanitized between uses. All surfaces (chairs, doors, bathrooms, tables, etc.) will be sanitized throughout the day.