Distress Centre

At the beginning of each shift, I'd log on to the Centre's computer and see the feedbacks that my supervisors gave on my call reports (which are reports I compose after I finish each call). I try to improve based on those feedbacks. Then I'd start answering the phone, assess the suicidal risk of each caller, and offer services accordingly (e.g. comfort those in stress and distress, get help for those who are suicidal, and offer additional government resources). I always make sure that the next staff comes in before I leave for my shift. 

I learned how to interact with various types of people, including those who are hyper sensitive and defensive. The hardest part of the job is finding out the specific needs of each caller and give them corresponding service within a short frame work, as we have a long waiting line of callers, including those who may be suicidal. The most enjoyable part of the job is talking to a wide variety of people, and providing much needed service to my community. 

My co-workers are often very supportive and friendly, and we'd always share tips and personal experiences with each other. The management of Distress Centre is pretty good, though sometimes co-workers may be late, and I'd have to wait for them to come here before I leave. 

Distress Centre Calgary is a fantastic place to kickstart your career in human services. The initial volunteer training is fantastic and very comprehensive. There are some really good entry-level positions that you can apply for (e.g. 988 worker, call taker). It is a fast-paced work environment and it can sometimes be overwhelming. The work can be draining when there are staff shortages. The most enjoyable part of the work is getting to work with the fantastic volunteers and front line employees. The main area of improvement, from my perspective, is the leadership of the organization. In terms of fostering a positive and psychologically safe work environment, there is great deal of improvement needed. There is a lot of staff turnover as well. The HR department also requires improvement; there could be a lot more done to support staff towards their goals and advance within the agency (e.g. effective feedback for staff). Staff appreciation and recognition is quite inconsistent as well. 

Great place to volunteer and learn skills to assist people in crisis. A lot of training to help you prepare your skillset for the phone and chat lines. Tons of support from staff as often as needed. Great flexibility as only 5 shifts were required (at the time) and I picked my days, plus worked as many or as few shifts as I needed month to month. Lots of training to keep current, though a bit too much change fatigue occurred during 100% remote period. This company prioritizes and encourages growth and development for career opportunity and advancement. 

Interesting place to work and great for social work folks. Team members are very supportive of one another. Clients can vary. You get good days where clients will be positive and things run smooth. Then you can get bad days were overdoses will happen, drug abuse and aggression will happen. It comes with the social work territory but you have a supportive team who will work and support you on those bad days.

What is the best part of working at the company?
Supportive work environment with great training 

What is the most stressful part about working at the company?
Working nights was hard for me but works for others 

What is the work environment and culture like at the company?
Welcoming and supportive. They do invest a lot  in creating a positive work environment

Though very grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such a worthy cause & organization, it was a valuable learning experience as to the career paths in organizations such as these and how much a healthy work environment depends on wise & competent leaders, as much as knowledgeable or experienced leaders.

The benefit to working at Distress Centre is definitely the people you will work with. The support and management at this company is amazing. While the work itself can be challenging, I have felt very supported throughout my time here. There are always opportunities for advancement as well. 

The organization offers in-depth training to help you get prepared to handle various situations in your role as some visitors can have suicidal thoughts, and it can be overwhelming for a beginner. The team is also very supportive of each other, I can ask for assistance whenever I feel stuck in a convo.

As a volunteer on the crisis lines, I provide immediate and confidential crisis support to callers. The most enjoyable part of this position is the relationship building that occurs over the phone as well as the ongoing support from coworkers and management. This is a wondering place to work and continues to build  on my current skills.

There are many different possibilities for employment  at DC that could work for various skill sets. But as any nonprofit there is not enough funding or manpower to go around and people are often asked to go far above and beyond the job description with no bump in pay or acknowledgment. 

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