Rewards of Volunteering

Volunteering as a 2-1-1 Big Bend hotline counselor requires a significant commitment of time and energy. It's natural to wonder what you'll get out it, and whether the benefits will be worth the effort. You are the only person who can answer that question for yourself. However, we can tell you that for many people over many years, the answer has been a definite yes. In fact, it's common for volunteers to report that their experience at 2-1-1 Big Bend has changed their lives forever.

Here are some of the benefits that you may receive:

Personal Rewards:

• the knowledge that you are able to make a difference in people's lives, one call at a time
• personal growth from helping others
• improved interpersonal skills in personal and professional relationships
• greater understanding of self and the inner experiences of others
• personal expertise in issues related to HIV/AIDS and suicide
• a supportive environment of trainers, volunteers, supervisors, and other staff
• the development of meaningful friendships with other volunteers and staff
• networking opportunities with individuals who share similar interests and goals

Professional & Academic Rewards:

• professional experience providing direct service to a broad segment of the population with a variety of needs and concerns
• expanded knowledge and awareness of local and statewide community resources and services
• opportunities for paid employment
• work-study opportunities when approved by 2-1-1 Big Bend and your university
• internship opportunities for many different academic programs, including Social Work, Marketing, Communications, Rehabilitation, and others
• academic and/or professional letters of recommendation from 2-1-1 Big Bend supervisory staff for volunteers who have successfully completed their 200-hour, one-year commitment

To learn more about the benefits of volunteering, read what our volunteers have said in their own words.

If you have more questions, please contact our Coordinator of Volunteers at (850) 617-6309 or complete our online volunteer information request form.