Twenty seven years ago I read about the National Runaway Switchboard in a DePaulia article and decided to volunteer. They run a crisis intervention hot-line (1-800 RUNAWAY) for teens and pre-teens who are at risk for running way or committing suicide.
After an intensive training process I got on the phones to talk with callers and help them come to terms with their situations and find options for changing their lives. I spoke with adolescents from across the country and from every walk of life. Eventually, I got into the training process and helped dozens of other volunteers get their voice and ears.
It was emotionally challenging and stimulating at the same time. I gained a better insight into my own life and learned how to help others do the same. Strong coping skills were essential and decompressing was vital. I almost trademarked the phrase “shot & a beer”, and my gallows humor was widely appreciated by the staff and volunteers. It was one of the more difficult volunteer engagements I have every had.
When I decided to embark on this year’s journey of volunteerism, I knew I had to go back to the NRS and so this past spring I made contact with the current Volunteer Coordinator, Michelle Vos. When I visited their offices it was like I never left. With the exception of the modernized PC system versus the huge computer print out directories it was all very familiar.
To help them out I took many of my old training materials and let Michelle copy whatever she found useful. This week I visited some Chicago Public Libraries and left behind brochures, posters, business cards, DVDs, and other promotional materials for teenagers.
I am also recording a video for It Get’s Better that promotes the NRS as an option to find support, but that’s another story. 
If you think you have what it takes to listen and talk WITH at risk teenagers please give them a call and find out how you can get on the line. You can see more about them at this video on YoutuBe, A Listening Ear.
This is twenty-seven, and now only 23 to go!
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