Carl introduced our guest speakers, Jackie Andrews and Mary Rumsby from the NEEDS Crisis line. Jackie gave a great review of the history and the services provided by the Crisis line. The organization has been working for 36 years in Victoria and offers 24/7 telephone access for anyone in need to call. Trained volunteers take the calls. In addition there is a special youth line, staffed by trained youth volunteers, that operates from 4-10pm, 7 days per week. The focus of the help is that callers experience that they have been fully heard and understood and have been provided non-judgmental emotional support. Callers remain anonymous. The Crisis line volunteers do not problem solve or offer advice but are trained in crisis intervention and referrals where that is required. Callers range from people who live on the streets to professionals. Most share a common experience of being lonely, isolated, depressed and sometimes suicidal. Youth and mature volunteers are welcomed and will be interviewed, screened and trained before taking their first calls. Jackie said it is very satisfying work in that you know you are making a positive impact on people’s lives every shift and you learn new skills that help you in every aspect of your life.

Closing Remarks:
President Jack adjourned the meeting with the assistance of a Halloween Gremlin who reminded people that next week would be vocational presentations and Halloween. If you have a costume, you are encouraged to wear it!