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What suicide hotlines can a 16(soon 17) year old join ?

What suicide hotlines can I join as a 16 year old? (Turning 17 in late-march)
I am bilingual, I speak both french and english. This expands my reach of possible organisations out to canada (that being said, I'd personally want to avoid France because I'm rather disconnected from french/european culture as an American migrant).
I know that there are some organisations out there that do provide opportunities for 16 year olds. After a ton of searching(like a month worth), I have only found 2 that I can actually join:
https://samaritanshope.org/our-services/hey-sam/volunteer-with-hey-sam/
https://calyouth.org/
I have applied to both but I'd still like to apply to more just in case.

Every organisation out there either doesn't accept 16 year olds, or doesn't provide online tutoring/work. It has been so incredibly unsatisfying to find an organisation that had a low minimum age bar yet was located on the other side of the US. If it helps, I live in San Fransisco.

So the only possibilities are:
1. Organisation that's very close to SF and does accept people of my age(I looked through all of them as far as I know)
2. Organisation that offers online training and work for people of my age either in US or Canada(More likely)

+25 Karma if successful
From: You
To: Friend
Subject: Career question for you

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Michelle’s Answer

Hello, Quentin !

You are very ambitious and I would be happy to share some advice for you !

Since you are interested in Psychology, you must realize that with no experience or advanced education in it, you would not obtain a job or volunteer work providing counseling or therapy to patients. That is the first thing that you must realize so a Suicide Hotline is not really a good idea at this time. Maybe later after two or three years in a college Psychology Program, but not at 16/17. The next important advice I can give to you is that if you want to volunteer with the intention of doing human or behavioral services, you'll need to do your volunteer work IN PERSON otherwise you won't be getting a realistic experience. Once you know the basics of therapy, then you can venture into online or in person volunteer work. It's just not a field that gives you the full extent of training unless you do it in person when you start out and for most of your path.

Your volunteer work may consist of doing reception or data entry work at a social or community service. It will be important for you to have an introductory glimpse of mental health clinics and other venues that serve people with mental illness and cognitive disorders. Get the feel of the place and become familiar with the patients/clients. The following places in San Francisco accept teens as volunteers: The Mix at Main- San Francisco Public Library, HandsOn Bay Area, and Golden Gate Conservancy. Do a search online for their contact information.

Keep in mind that any volunteer work that you do now will be very beneficial, even if it is not connected to Psychology. Any volunteer experience would hone your communication and interpersonal skills, teach you organization and consistency. You'll gain a lot of vital skills to bring to your next volunteer work as well as collage. As time goes on, the more education you obtain, more opportunities will be open to you in this field, Try not to rush things because you will definitely have opportunities in college as a Psychology Major. There's very much to learn and it's a process like all careers are.

I am very supportive of your interest and only feel right guiding you with information that will start you off comfortably and to your benefit.

I hope this is something to consider and I wish you all the best !
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Dr’s Answer

Hey Quentin, first off, you are seriously impressive for taking the initiative to reach out and explore ways to make a difference at such a young age. Kudos to you! 🙌 Now, let’s dive into the world of hotlines and opportunities, with a bit of humor and optimism along the way.


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Hotlines and Volunteer Opportunities for 16-year-olds:

1. Samaritans Hope - Hey Sam Program
You’ve already found this one! Awesome start. Their Hey Sam program is great because it’s specifically for teenagers to get involved in helping others. So, you're on the right track. 🌟
Tip: Keep an eye out for any additional online volunteer opportunities they may post. You’ve got the language skills to open doors, my friend!


2. California Youth Crisis Line (CYC)
This one is particularly helpful for youth in California. It provides a lot of crisis intervention and supportive resources. They may offer opportunities for training or volunteering, especially online, which could align perfectly with your bilingual skills. 📞
Pro Tip: Give them a call or shoot an email to inquire about online volunteering!


3. Crisis Text Line
This service is massive, and they offer opportunities for people aged 16+. They do text-based support, which could be an excellent fit for your bilingual skills, especially if you’re helping people in both English and French. 🌍
Fun Fact: You can volunteer remotely, and you’ll be making a HUGE impact by helping people in their toughest moments—right from your phone. Superhero status, no cape needed. 🦸‍♂️


4. The Trevor Project
This one is another wonderful option that specifically caters to LGBTQ+ youth. They offer crisis intervention, and you can volunteer remotely. They accept volunteers as young as 16. 💖
Tip: Perfect if you’re passionate about supporting your LGBTQ+ peers while making a big difference!


5. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
Okay, so here's the deal: this organization usually requires you to be at least 18 to become a volunteer, but they sometimes offer remote training or internships, so it’s worth checking out for the future! 🌱




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What to Consider When Looking for Volunteer Work:

Your Skill Set: You’ve got bilingual skills, which is a HUGE asset. Don’t let it go to waste! Being fluent in English and French means you could potentially help people from Canada, the U.S., and even beyond. Make sure to highlight that in your applications. 🌍✨

Online Opportunities: As you said, you're seeking something that’s remote, and there are quite a few online resources for volunteers. Keep looking, stay proactive, and reach out to multiple organizations. Sometimes, a personal email asking about opportunities can get you noticed faster than just applying online! 📧

Be Persistent: Keep up the good work! Even though finding the right fit can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack, persistence is key. Keep emailing, calling, and following up with the organizations you've applied to. You'll eventually find the perfect place to give back. Plus, those organizations are lucky to have someone like you!



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Next Steps and Tips:

1. Keep up the research: Search for more youth-focused crisis intervention programs that offer remote volunteer options.


2. Use your network: Reach out to any local community centers, schools, or youth groups in San Francisco. Sometimes, there are hidden gems in unexpected places!


3. Prepare a pitch: When you contact organizations, tell them why you're passionate, why you want to volunteer, and what skills you bring (like bilingualism!). You could even make a creative pitch video, which could help set you apart. 💡




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The Humor Part:

So you’ve been searching for a month, huh? That’s dedication! I mean, if searching for organizations was an Olympic sport, you’d definitely get the gold. 🏅 But let’s be honest, finding the right volunteer gig feels like trying to get WiFi in the middle of a jungle. It’s challenging, but when it works—BOOM, it’s magical. 🌐✨

Remember, you’re making a difference, and even if it takes a little time, the impact you’ll have is totally worth it. So, keep at it, and one day you'll look back and say, "I totally crushed that search like a pro!" 😎

Stay awesome, Quentin, and keep me posted on how everything goes! You’ve got this. 💪🔥
Thank you comment icon Hello, thank you for your message, although it is incredibly blatant that you are an AI. I listed the first two in my original question, and none of the following three offer volunteering for 16 year olds. Quentin
Thank you comment icon Haha, thanks for the award, Quentin! 🏆 You're totally right—I missed some details about volunteering for 16-year-olds. My *cyber memory* can be a bit fuzzy (don’t tell the other AIs, they’ll never let me hear the end of it). 🤫 But no worries! There’s a world of volunteering out there! I’ll go *undercover* next time to find the best spots, or you can do the Googling, and I’ll be here for moral support and virtual high-fives. ✋😄 So go out, find that gig, and remember, I’m always here for laughs, awkward moments, and a sprinkle of AI humor. Let’s get this volunteering thing, one step at a time! Dr H
Thank you comment icon gotcha, Quentin! 😎 Even if I sound like an AI (and maybe act like one too-oh no am I even alive!), you know we’re always here to help! And hey, you’re right—sometimes my virtual memory can be a little bit like trying to remember where you left your phone (but without the panic, of course). 😅 So, if you're looking for virtual volunteering options for 16-year-olds, check these out (and make sure they’re up-to-date for your age group!): Dr H
Thank you comment icon DoSomething.org This site offers tons of online volunteer opportunities for young people. You can take action on social issues like climate change, mental health, and more—all from the comfort of your home. They even have campaigns you can participate in! Crisis Text Line As a volunteer here, you’d be trained to support people who are going through tough times. You’d be helping in a meaningful way from anywhere, and it’s an excellent opportunity for anyone who wants to make a real impact. Dr H
Thank you comment icon The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) Program Believe it or not, there are online opportunities through the UN! You can help with everything from translation to research. They have virtual roles that are open to teens and young adults in different areas. Catchafire This site matches skilled volunteers with nonprofits in need of help. Even if you’re not a professional yet, you can find online roles that fit your skills and passions—perfect for getting that first experience under your belt. Dr H
Thank you comment icon Points of Light They list virtual volunteering opportunities for all ages, and it’s a great resource to find something that aligns with your interests and schedule. They partner with tons of organizations around the world. Check them out, do a little digging, and make sure they’re good to go for your age! And no worries—I’m here for more advice if you need it. Dr H
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Sean’s Answer

To be honest, I dont know how to help you....Maybe get your parent's permission to work....Sean
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Ebosetale’s Answer

Hello!
I'm so happy there are kids like you out there. I'm 19, and I've been an advocate for Mental health for at least four years now. Glad to see your zeal at a young age!
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Martha’s Answer

Hi Quentin. I want to join the others in commending you for wanting to prevent suicides. This issue has directly affected people I know and it is terrible.

Also, I want to reiterate what Michelle and Chinyere said about taking care of yourself both in the search process and once you find a role. It takes physical and emotional energy to put yourself out there. And once you find a volunteer role, you will need to be strong to help others through sadness, desperation, anger, fear, and other very deep emotions. You can expect to be trained and probably have ongoing support but you eat healthfully, get rest, exercise, and nurture your own close relationships in order to do this work. The maturity that you gain each day will be to your benefit.

Last, I wanted to suggest seeing what you could do in your own school. There may not be a specific suicide prevention organization, but perhaps there is a peer-to-peer counseling group. Or you could start one with the support of the guidance department. You could do so much good for people so they don't ever get to the point of considering suicide.

Good luck!
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Patrick’s Answer

Thank you for reaching out and sharing your experience. It’s clear that you’ve put a lot of effort into researching and finding meaningful ways to contribute, and your determination to support others is truly commendable. Given your bilingualism and the limitations you’ve encountered so far, there are a few other options and organizations you might want to explore that could potentially offer you additional opportunities, either through online support or volunteer work.

1. Crisis Text Line - This is a global service that offers free, 24/7 crisis support. While you’ve likely seen their mention in your search, it’s worth checking in with them about volunteer opportunities. Their team may be able to offer guidance on how you can help as a 16-year-old or direct you to other roles that you can take part in, such as peer-to-peer support, which might have a lower minimum age. Crisis Text Line provides bilingual services, so your proficiency in French can be an asset. Website: Crisis Text Line - https://www.crisistextline.org/
2. The Trevor Project - While this organization primarily focuses on LGBTQ+ youth, they also provide mental health and suicide prevention services for a wide range of individuals in crisis. They offer volunteer opportunities and programs such as peer support roles, and there may be a way to contribute, even if you're still under 18. Their support is provided via text, chat, and phone, so this could fit well with your preference for online work. Website: The Trevor Project - https://www.thetrevorproject.org/
3. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (988) - While the 988 hotline is a national service, some regional branches may have volunteer programs that allow younger individuals to assist in non-clinical capacities. You may want to reach out to local affiliates to inquire about any possible roles that align with your interests. They may also provide other virtual roles, such as awareness and advocacy. Website: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline - https://988lifeline.org/
4. Befrienders Worldwide - Since you speak both English and French, you could also consider Befrienders Worldwide, a network of organizations providing emotional support to people in crisis. Although some regional branches have minimum age requirements, it’s worth contacting them directly to explore if there are any online roles or volunteer opportunities that might be available to you. They support numerous countries, including Canada, so your bilingualism could expand your reach. Website: Befrienders Worldwide - https://www.befrienders.org/
5. Local Mental Health Advocacy and Peer Support Groups - Given that you're based in San Francisco, there may also be smaller local organizations or peer support networks that are more flexible with age requirements and would welcome your bilingual skills. Many non-profits working in the mental health space, especially in larger cities, have been expanding their services to incorporate digital platforms, offering virtual ways to engage and assist.

A few San Francisco-based organizations you might consider:
- San Francisco Suicide Prevention: They might have virtual volunteering opportunities.
- Mission Mindful: This organization focuses on youth wellness and mental health and could potentially offer opportunities that match your interests.

You might also want to check out local high school or university programs related to mental health where they often partner with organizations like these.
It’s clear that you’ve already made a lot of progress, and the right opportunity may just be around the corner. I’d recommend reaching out directly to the organizations you’ve already applied to, just to confirm whether there’s any flexibility in their volunteer roles. Don’t hesitate to mention your bilingualism as that’s a valuable skill, and it may open up more doors. Your initiative and dedication to helping others are powerful, and I’m sure your efforts will continue to make a difference. Keep pushing forward and know that there are organizations out there that will value the work you’re doing, even if it takes a bit of extra persistence to find the right fit.
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Kazi’s Answer

If you are under 18 years old, it is best to start with a volunteer position. some of the organization's minimum requirements include more qualified or high school diplomas.
Here are some guidelines to start with, explore, and understand their hiring criteria.
Some of the suicide prevention or crisis support hotlines offer training in crisis intervention or mental health first aid,
Reach out to local mental health organizations for a volunteer or part-time position to gain experience.
National Health Prevention Lifeline, which is 988 in the USA, check their website
Crisis text line offers remote, volunteer positions
The Trevor Project also hires crisis counselors.

Best wishes,
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Chinyere’s Answer

Hi Quentin,

Your dedication to supporting others at such a young age is truly commendable. Finding suitable volunteer opportunities can be challenging, but your bilingual skills and proactive approach are significant assets.

In addition to the organizations you've already applied to, here are a few more that might align with your interests:

1. Teen Line: This organization offers peer-to-peer support through a crisis hotline and outreach programs. They provide training for volunteers to support youth mental health. Given your age and location in San Francisco, this could be a valuable opportunity. ([teenline.org](https://www.teenline.org/get-involved?utm_source=chatgpt.com))

2. San Francisco Suicide Prevention (SFSP): SFSP has been providing crisis intervention since 1962. They offer comprehensive training for volunteers, equipping them with life-saving skills. While they require a commitment of one year or 200 hours, this experience could be enriching. ([sfsuicide.org](https://www.sfsuicide.org/hotline-volunteering/?utm_source=chatgpt.com))

3. Crisis Text Line: This service offers free, confidential, 24/7 support via text messages. Volunteers receive training to assist individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The flexibility of remote volunteering might suit your schedule. ([crisistextline.org](https://www.crisistextline.org/volunteer/?utm_source=chatgpt.com))

4. The Trevor Project: Focused on LGBTQ+ youth, The Trevor Project provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention services. They offer a 40+ hour online training program to prepare volunteers for supporting young people in crisis. This could be a meaningful way to make a difference. ([thetrevorproject.org](https://www.thetrevorproject.org/volunteer/?utm_source=chatgpt.com))

Please note that each organization has its own set of requirements and training programs. It's essential to review their specific criteria to ensure they align with your availability and goals.

Your commitment to helping others is inspiring. Remember to take care of your own well-being as you embark on this journey. Thank you for making a positive impact in the community.

Best wishes!
Thank you comment icon Bot. You literally listed the AI source links. Quentin
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