Please fill out the application form provided below.
Checklist
Welcome to the application process to become a ConnecTeen Youth Blogging Volunteer.
Please complete ALL of the following items on this checklist, prior to submitting your application package.
✔ Part I – Application
✔ Part II – Current Résumé
✔ Part III – Submission of written work
✔ Part IV – One Letter of reference
- Work, Volunteer or Academic References only (no personal references such as family, friends, etc.).
- Letter is to speak to qualifications listed below
Youth Program Volunteer Job Description
Mission Statement:
Provide compassionate, accessible crisis support that enhances the health, well-being and resiliency of individuals in distress.
Vision Statement:
Everyone is heard.
Distress Centre Core Values
Accessibility | Collaboration | Compassion | Excellence | Inclusivity |
Innovation | Leadership | Partnerships | Respect | Volunteerism |
For the last 40 years, Distress Centre has provided 24-hour support lines, crisis counselling and referral services to anyone in need. We give people from all walks of life the immediate emotional and mental support they need to overcome crisis—whatever it may be. Together, staff and volunteers create a unique culture and supportive work environment that sets us apart. Our staff do not simply have an interest in helping, but share a commitment to achieving results. Distress Centre provides the support, resources, and opportunities needed to grow and create change for our community.
ConnecTeen is Distress Centre’s youth peer support service, providing a safe, confidential, non-judgmental and easily-accessible space for youth to talk about their problems with other youth. Help is available 24 hours a day by calling 403.264.TEEN (8336) or through email, daily online crisis chat, or text messaging accessible at www.CalgaryConnecTeen.com. Our highly trained youth volunteers are between the ages of 15 – 21 and provide support to teens who are struggling, have questions or just need someone to talk to.
As a ConnecTeen Blogging volunteer you will assist in the creation of monthly blog posts for the ConnecTeen website. These posts may include both written and visual responses. Posts will be based on the issues we address through ConnecTeen services, awareness campaigns or events, and other youth related topics of interest.
Qualifications
- 15 to 21 inclusive
- Demonstrate exceptional time management and ability to meet deadlines
- Display ability to work independently
- Proficient written English skills
Training
- One ConnecTeen Observation Shift – 5 hours
- One at home training session and statement of learning
- Blogging volunteers will have the option to attend part or all of the regular training sessions that are available to crisis volunteers.
Length of Commitment
Blogging volunteers will be expected to send in a two blog posts per month for a minimum of six months. Blogging volunteers are also encouraged to attend monthly developmental trainings and quarterly ConnecTeen team meetings to stay connected to the organization and provide insight for possible blog post topics.
Obligations
As a volunteer, you will consider and agree to the terms stated below:
- As a Youth Program Volunteer, I agree to meet my commitment of 2 blog entries per month for a minimum of six months
- I agree to meet the deadlines for blog posts as agreed upon between myself and my mentor
- I agree to follow and adhere to the policies and procedures of the Distress Centre
- I will attend developmental training, ConnecTeen community events and ConnecTeen team meetings as I am able
- I understand my work will be evaluated on an ongoing basis
- If I do not fulfill the aforementioned commitments, I am aware my status as a volunteer will be reviewed
Benefits
As an organization built around volunteers, the quality of our services is only as good as the quality of our volunteer experience. And we are proud to say that both are exceptional. We have adopted the Canadian Code for Volunteer Involvement (CCVI) to ensure you have a meaningful and fulfilling volunteer experience.
There are many benefits to volunteering at Distress Centre. Here’s just a few:
- Contribute to the ongoing development of original ConnecTeen Website Content
- Develop and enhance many skills in:
- Writing
- Self-awareness
- Creative expression
- Knowledge of current youth issues
- Reference Letter
* Selection is without discrimination and is based on available positions *
Distress Centre is a non-smoking facility.
Part I: Please complete the following information
Contact Info
For further details contact:
Distress Centre 300, 1010 8th Ave SW Calgary AB T2P 1J2 |
Phone: 403.266.1634 Fax: 403.262.2512 Email: volunteer@distresscentre.com Web: www.calgaryconnecteen.com |