Helpline Workers – Testimonials

"I started volunteering at the Distress Center in December of 2004. I am retired from General Motors and I decided it was time to give back to a community that had given so much to me. This decision was one that I was glad I made. The expertise, help, guidance and knowledge of the staff are one of the greatest experiences of my life. For someone who knew nothing about volunteering or being a phone line helper their help was insurmountable. These past two years they have shown me the true meaning of being a volunteer. They have shown me the meaning of using empathy and the practice of active listening which to me are two of the most important parts of being a phone line volunteer and two that I will never forget.

I have learned how do deal with suicide and what CPR is:

Current Suicide Plan
Previous History
Resources Available

You will never know how important these are until you get your fist suicide call, trust me. Just remember no matter what your troubles are there are always someone with more troubles than you have.

A real big thank you goes out to the staff for helping me complete one of my life’s ambitions of giving back to my community and now a proud volunteer."

Gary, Retired Employee of General Motors / 2006

“Distress Centre Durham’s training has given me an immense advantage in understanding the material in my program. DCD was able to give me one on one experience with clients over the telephone helpline. This experience was invaluable to me as a student and future counsellor.”

Jennifer, 19, George Brown College, Human Services Counsellor student – 2002

“At DCD, I’ve learned from callers that it’s not my job to impose my viewpoints on others, but to listen and be non-judgemental. Being open to and respectful of others’ opinions is an interpersonal skill that will undoubtedly help me as a medical student and later as a physician.”

Kelly, 27, University medical student – 2004

“Distress Centre Durham opened a door for me; I learned a great deal about myself and others while I have chosen to move forward and beyond your service, I definitely appreciate that I was able to participate, and will take what I learned into my future.”

Emily, Human Services worker

"The staff and volunteer trainers were great instructors, patient and creative in finding solutions to the barriers that faced me as a visually impaired person. All the other volunteers were sensitive and helpful. I know that my experience developed confidence in myself to proceed with my pursuit of employment and education. The training in empathy and listening prepared me for my current job with the Children’s Aid Society. Also practice in responding to and evaluating crisis situations are skills which I am continually developing. One of the most fascinating aspect of working as a phone volunteer is the intrigue of answering the phone , and responding to the need of the caller. I will not forget my experience gained at DCD."

Nancy Children’s Aid worker, 2004

"Volunteering at Distress Centre Durham has been an amazing learning opportunity for me. I have gained invaluable experience that I will take with me. The atmosphere there is so positive and supportive. My diverse experiences at DCD have really built my confidence in the area of counselling and solidified my decision to become a counsellor. In addition, I cannot say enough positive things about the organization and the people. I will miss all of you so much! You truly do such a great job! I really appreciate all of the generous references you provided me with and your on-going support over the last couple of years. I hope that when I finish school I may be able to volunteer again."

Female – Grad school psychology / counselling student, 2004