CONTACT of Ocean & Monmouth Counties to Host Hotline Volunteer Orientation Training

TOMS RIVER, N.J. - Aug. 5, 2025 - PRLog -- CONTACT of Ocean & Monmouth Counties (CONTACT) is thrilled to announce the return of their Fall Volunteer Telephone Hotline Training. This free six-week program takes place every Tuesday and Thursday from 6:30-9:30 PM, starting on September 16th. Sessions will be held at Christ Episcopal Church at 415 Washington Street in Toms River.

CONTACT's 24/7 hotline provides crucial support for individuals in crisis and in need of information. Beyond the Crisis Intervention Hotline, CONTACT offers essential community support programs, including the First Call for Help Program, which provides callers with information and referrals to community resources.

The training program equips potential volunteers with active listening and empathy skills. Active listening is essential for CONTACT volunteers– it allows them to truly "hear" callers, and respond calmly, accurately and without judgement.

"Once learned, active listening is a skill volunteers can use in their everyday lives– even outside of their work with CONTACT," stated Kim Santora, Executive Director of CONTACT. "Attending these training sessions can help an individual become a better all-around communicator, which benefits their personal and professional relationships. Plus, volunteers get to do good by providing live- saving support to members of their community."

Volunteers must be over the age of 18 and committed to completing the training course. It is recommended that volunteers have basic computer skills or are open to learning this as well.

"We invite anyone compassionate and committed to apply," said Santora. "CONTACT is always in need of dedicated volunteers. This is a great opportunity to learn a valuable skill and put it to good use helping individuals in our community."

There are limited spaces available for this Volunteer Orientation. Secure a spot by calling 732-240-6104 or emailing contact@contactoceanmonmouth.org.

Join CONTACT in making a difference in the lives of those in need by becoming a trained volunteer. Your dedication and compassion can be the lifeline someone is searching for.

If you or a loved one needs someone to talk to, call CONTACT's Crisis Intervention and Listening Hotline at 732-240-6100. Confidential, compassionate support is available 24/7.

About CONTACT of Ocean & Monmouth Counties

CONTACT of Ocean & Monmouth Counties is a non-profit charitable organization that provides trained telephone listeners who respond to human needs 24 hours every day. This volunteer-based organization offers free confidential crisis intervention, information on available resources, and referrals to community services. To learn more, visit https://contactoceanmonmouth.org/.