About Training Program: Paraprofessional Volunteers

Suicide Hotline Training Program
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Paraprofessional positions respond to local Depression Line (630-482-9696) and National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK).
 
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.
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Completion of our online application and interview questions; references, background check, and an interview are required. Payment of $300 upon acceptance to the program, is also required.
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The $300 will be refunded upon fulfillment of 240 clock hours of hotline service, post-training. Training includes:
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ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training) certification - 16 hours - one full weekend
Hotline orientation and domestic violence/sexual assault training - two Saturday mornings
Approximately 12 hours of home-learning
Eight 4-hour supervised training shifts directly on the hotline - 32 hours
 
The decision to accept a candidate to our training program requires consideration of multiple factors.
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If we are not able to offer you a paraprofessional position, you may still elect to pay for and obtain the ASIST certification.
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The 240 hours of service are typically completed with one year’s worth of five 4-hour shifts per month. Most paraprofessionals choose one regular weekly shift, plus an additional variable shift. Suicide Prevention Services recognizes paraprofessional service hours beyond the required 240 hours. Service achievement awards and a “Volunteer of the Year” award are presented at our annual celebration.

For more information: email [email protected]

Application Process

Complete Application and Interview Questions, available at www.spsamerica.org