The Listening Ear

An incredible organization with incredible people! I feel like I am having a real, positive impact on the Lansing community when I volunteer at the Ear. Everyone there is so supportive and kind. I could not be happier that I took the risk and went through training. It's rigorous, but also transformative. The Ear has given me friendships and experiences I will never forget!

Volunteering with the Listening Ear was a great decision for me. I've learned so many great skills related to communication, and I feel like the training staff really prepared me to meet the needs of the incredibly wide range of callers. The community is so supportive and open, and it has left me with a sense of having made a personal connection not only with the people who call into the hotline, but also with the other staff members. I also feel like the recent coining of the word 'sonder' happened at the perfect time to give me a word to explain the perspective volunteering at the Listening Ear has given me, and I mean that in a very positive way.

As a volunteer at the Listening Ear, you will go through our nationally-recognized training program that gives you the skills to respond to clients in crisis, including people feeling suicidal and survivors of sexual assault. This program will challenge you in ways you may not expect, but you will emerge with a new understanding of both your own emotional self and effective ways to help others. We only ask volunteers to give 20 hours per month, but you can also get involved in new volunteer training or as a Sexual Assault Counselor to support survivors receiving medical care or provide short-term counseling. The community of volunteers is laid back and welcoming. We support other Ears who may be going through a hard time. We plan events such as parties, picnics, and yoga nights. There is even an Ear band! The Ear family is growing. Won't you join us?

There is no better volunteer opportunity in the Greater Lansing Area than the Listening Ear. The skills they provide you with along with the friends you'll make, are among the many benefits of volunteering at the Ear!

This is a great organization to volunteer for. You will learn some important things about yourself as well as learn how to connect more deeply with people and understand how they process things. It's well worth the time and you will definitely help others in their times of crisis or general issues!

The Ear makes me feel like I'm making a difference. I have really connected with some of the callers. It feels great knowing I may be helping someone out by listening to them. The Ear staff is also a community; we're a family. I am constantly supported and have met some truly wonderful people. One of the best decisions I've made! Come join us!

I love the listening ear!! I would definitely urge as a place to get involved. The work we do helps some many people. Aside from crisis intervention, the ear is a great place to be on staff as well. Not only is the ear a judgement free place, but I have made some real life-long friends since volunteering there. Please come to an orientation and check it out!! You won't regret it!! Coming to the ear has been the best decision of my life.

This is a wonderful free and confidential service for our community to use in times of crisis. The Listening Ear gives you all the skills and support you need to aid callers through emotional crisis. The Listening Ear volunteers may also choose to advocate for survivors of sexual assault.