Fun Fact:

I am obsessed with Dinosaurs! As I kid I wanted to be a Paleontologist and though I never pursued it, my love for Dinos never changed.

How did you first become involved with NRS?

I had recently received some amazing support during a difficult time. Afterward, I decided I should pay that support forward by getting involved and volunteering. I searched out an opportunity that I thought I could best serve and ended up discovering the National Runaway Safeline.

What keeps you coming back?

The thought that I can, in someway, offer somebody compassion and understanding and help in a time that they may not have those things and possibly in that moment give them hope.

What have you learned from your experiences here?

That there is no “right way” to help someone in need. That just having a willingness to listen can inspire the greatest hope.

What is a story from your experience that stuck with you?

I chatted with someone who shared their powerful and tragic story with me and, to the best of my ability, I gave them resources and support but I ultimately felt that regardless of what I said or did, it would not be enough. Then I read their post chat survey in which they indicated they for the first time felt optimism about their situation and in that moment I realized that often we can only assume what our impact is but the reality may be far better.

Open Mic Moment (this is your chance to say whatever you would like):

My time here has reinforced my decision to go back to school for my MSW. This has been a wonderful opportunity to volunteer with and be apart of a great organization and other great people that give so much of their time to help total strangers.

If you are in the Chicago area and interested in becoming a crisis line volunteer at NRS, please reach out to Jamin Draves, Volunteer Coordinator, at JDraves@1800RUNAWAY.org or 773-289-1726 with any questions.

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