Receiving a
heartfelt thank you card from my supervisors at YouthLine Oregon recently gave me pause to reflect on my journey with this incredible organization. From the moment I joined at age 15 to my current role as a Shift Lead, my experience at YouthLine has been transformative in ways I could never have anticipated.
My connection with YouthLine began when I first encountered them at the Beaverton Volunteer Fair in 2022. I was only 14 at the time and not yet eligible to join. However, the mission of YouthLine resonated deeply with me, and I knew it was something I wanted to be a part of. As soon as I turned 15 and met the age requirement, I eagerly joined the team.
I remember walking into the YouthLine office for the first time, nervous yet eager to make a difference. The idea of providing support to my peers in crisis seemed both daunting and empowering. The training was rigorous, emphasizing empathy, active listening, and confidentiality. Each session reinforced the importance of being a reliable source of support for those who reached out, often at their most vulnerable moments.
The early days on the line were challenging. I learned quickly that no two calls were the same, and the ability to adapt was crucial. Some days, I would speak with someone who simply needed to vent about their day, while other times, I found myself guiding someone through deep emotional pain. Each interaction was a reminder of the critical role YouthLine plays in the community, offering a lifeline to those in need.
As I grew more confident in my role, I began to appreciate the profound impact we were making—not just on those who called in, but on ourselves as volunteers. The support and camaraderie among the YouthLine team were vital. We leaned on each other after tough calls, celebrated small victories, and continuously learned from our experiences. This environment of mutual support helped me develop not only as a volunteer but also as a person.
One of the most significant milestones in my YouthLine journey was being promoted to Shift Lead. This role brought new responsibilities, including managing a team of 8-10 people and ensuring that each shift ran smoothly. As a Shift Lead, I’ve had the opportunity to mentor new volunteers, helping them navigate the challenges I once faced.
YouthLine has been more than just a volunteer experience; it’s been a cornerstone of my personal and professional development. I am excited to continue contributing to this vital organization and to see where this journey takes me next.
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