Each Paraprofessional Volunteer commits to one regular 4-hour shift each week.

We require a minimum of a 240-hour commitment post-training. The 240 service hours are typically completed with one year’s worth of five 4-hour shifts per month. It is required that each paraprofessional cover one regular 4-hour shift each week. Most paraprofessionals choose one regular weekly 4-hour shift and provide coverage for additional shifts through their service to help fill gaps in service time for our callers.

Paraprofessional Volunteers and Interns respond to calls for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline as well as our local Depression line. Volunteers compassionately assist, listen, and respond to callers who may be having thoughts of suicide, are experiencing a mental health crisis, or need emotional support. They often connect callers with additional resources.

Internships require a school contract or agreement, and a commitment of at least 310 hours over 2 semesters.

Suicide Prevention Services recognizes and encourages paraprofessional service hours beyond the required 240 hours. Service achievement awards and a “Volunteer of the Year” award are presented at our annual celebration, and volunteer appreciation events are typically held throughout the year.

​Training includes:

• Lifeline Orientation

• Suicide Prevention Training

• Classroom-style training on specific topics such as communication skills

• Domestic violence/sexual assault training

• Approximately 18 hours of at-home learning

• Eight 4-hour supervised training shifts answering Lifeline calls

��Training is an investment for individuals seeking entrance to, or enhancement of, a range of helping/business professions or for individuals seeking a fulfilling volunteer endeavor.

​You do not need to be a mental health professional to be a Lifeline Paraprofessional Volunteer.

Our paraprofessional volunteers range in age from 18 to 75 and come from all walks of life and occupational backgrounds.

Our paraprofessional volunteers are community members who are looking to help those in need who may be struggling with thoughts of suicide.