Carol’s story
December 2009
Dear Friends,
This year, the Crisis Centre celebrated its 40th anniversary. Through the 40 year history of the Centre, I have had the privilege to witness first hand the services and programs offered – as a caller, a volunteer, and for the last 25 years as a staff member.
Many years ago, I occasionally called the Crisis Centre’s 24 hour distress line. As a young, single mother holding down three part-time jobs, I found a great deal of comfort in the kind voices on the other end of the phone. It was such a relief to have someone to talk to when I was at my wit’s end, with nowhere to turn.
A few years later, I wanted to give back to the organization that had helped me get through my toughest times, so I began to volunteer. In 1984, I was hired on as staff, and 25 years later I can continue to say that I love the organization that I work for. Every day, I have the joy of working with so many compassionate volunteers, staff, and donors, who care about their community and want to ensure that everyone has a safe place to speak their mind.
Because of the generosity and compassion of our donors and volunteers, the Crisis Centre helps thousands of people every year through the 24 hour distress services. These services are available year-round, at no cost to the people who reach out for help.
For many people, the holidays are a very difficult and stressful time. Many other services are not accessible through the holiday season, but our volunteers are here 24 hours a day, every day, to lend a caring ear.
I have witnessed the good work we do every day through the distress services, but it wasn’t until my grandson told me about his experience with our Community Education program that I truly appreciated the importance and scope of the impact we have in our community.
One day, when he was at my house for dinner, my grandson told me that one of the Crisis Centre volunteers had come to his class to talk about suicide prevention. He told me that he learned a lot about how to help himself and friends through tough times. Following the workshop, he visited our online service for youth at www.YouthInBC.com, which he thought was “so cool” – that’s a big compliment coming from a teenager!
The Crisis Centre has touched my family in many ways over the past 40 years, and knowing that other individuals and families are receiving support and education through our programs makes my work very gratifying. I know that every day I am contributing to the wellness of my community.
Over the past 25 years, I have witnessed a drastic change in funding. When I first started, we operated primarily with the support of government grants. Today, over 60% of our annual budget must come from our own fundraising efforts.
This holiday season, please consider making a gift to the Crisis Centre. Every donation is very much appreciated.
On behalf of all the staff and volunteers at the Crisis Centre, I want to sincerely thank you for your support which has enabled us to continue to deliver free and vital services to those in need for 40 years. Committed and compassionate donors create a stable funding base, which has allowed us to be there for those reaching out for help in their darkest hours.
Sincerely,
Carol Williams
Crisis Centre Office Manager