Hotline Counselor

Save to Favorites

Our Hotline program is GMHC’s oldest volunteer opportunity and provides support and information to callers in need of someone to talk to. Volunteers with the Hotline have the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of callers while also learning a wealth of information regarding HIV/AIDS, counseling methods, and more.

Hotline Counselors provide information and referral services regarding HIV/AIDS and GMHC's programs and services to the general public who contact the GMHC Hotline by phone and email. Volunteers need to be able to respond to a diverse group of callers with diverse needs, and to stay informed about latest HIV/AIDS developments as well as GMHC policies and protocols. Bilingual Spanish/English is a plus. There is a critical need for daytime, weekday availability (Monday 2 - 6 pm, Wednesday10 am - 2 pm, and Friday 2 - 6 pm.)

Calls and emails to the GMHC Hotline could include topics such as:

• Concerns about HIV and AIDS
• Questions about HIV transmission and prevention
• Referrals to HIV/STI testing
• Connection to care
• Information about GMHC services
• How to become a GMHC client

Training will be provided by GMHC staff members and includes a 3-day intensive training, a series of Practicum sessions, and a listening-in period where trainees shadow senior Hotline Counselors to gain a real understanding of the work. Training is offered twice a year in the spring and in the fall. Due to the extensive training involved, we require a minimum one-year commitment from all Hotline Counselors.