Mark, a student at UMSL, has been volunteering on Provident's Life Crisis Services hotline since January, 2009.

What brought you to Provident's Life Crisis Services?

I'm a social work student, so I was attracted by the opportunity to help people in a crisis, and also to learn about all the resources that are available to help people in our community.

What was your training like?

The training was great.  They go through the material very slowly, to make sure that everyone has time to let it sink in.  The atmosphere is so supportive.  Even after the training, I always know that if I am on a really difficult call I can always get help and advice from the staff.

What kind of calls do you get?

Some of the calls are from people thinking about suicide, but not all of them are.  Some callers are struggling with finances or looking for help finding a job; some are having relationship problems, and some are depressed or anxious and just looking for someone to talk to.  We try to connect people to the resources that they need.

How do you help people on the hotline?

I try to help people gain perspective on the problems that they are facing, but really the most important thing that I do is listen. A lot of the people that call don't have anyone to talk to, to share their problems with.  Just being here and listening makes such a difference in their lives.