Remote Helpline Volunteer
Remote Helpline phone volunteers will offer information and treatment options to live callers and answer basic questions regarding body image and eating disorders in a caring and compassionate manner through an online phone system that can be accessed from a laptop or desktop. Volunteers will complete a series of trainings throughout their experience in order to answer live calls. This position is remote and is a great learning opportunity.
Primary Responsibilities:
Information and Treatment Option Services:
- Provide positive, respectful and timely responses regarding eating disorder information requests via incoming phone calls, voicemail messages, emails, forums, instant messages, and social media sites under Helpline responsibility.
- Ensure the distribution of Helpline information and treatment options in a timely manner that fits the needs of the individual and is presented in a professional manner.
- Compose general email responses for informational and treatment option requests.
- Develop skills related to database management.
- Increase knowledge and understanding concerning eating disorders and how to appropriately support those affected by them.
- When deemed appropriate by the Helpline Staff, serve as a mentor in the training of newer Helpline volunteers and interns.
- Contribute to the association’s mission of eliminating eating disorders and body dissatisfaction.
Training/Support Provided:
Volunteers will receive in-depth training, guidance, and supervision from experienced Helpline staff members. Training includes general knowledge about eating disorders, the programs and services NEDA offers, and how to effectively communicate with individuals and family members affected by eating disorders through the Helpline's remote phone platform. Additional training includes how to appropriately search and distribute information and treatment options to contacts in a caring and professional manner. All training is completed remotely and does not require the volunteer to visit the NYC office. Volunteers should expect to strengthen their current knowledge and talent as well as learn new skills when getting involved with NEDA.
Benefits:
Remote phone volunteers will have the opportunity to work alongside the national Helpline in supporting individuals and family members affected by eating disorders. Volunteers will have the opportunity to strengthen their talent while learning new skills which are essential in being an effective Helpline volunteer. Volunteers will receive ongoing training, guidance, feedback, and supervision from a team of Helpline staff members.
Required Qualifications:
- High energy, positive attitude, and enthusiasm.
- Meticulous attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
- Excellent communication skills and demonstrated ability to provide quality customer service.
- Strong computer skills, data entry and word-processing ability.
- Must be dependable and self-motivated.
- Able to work effectively as an individual and as part of a team.
- Recovery is important to us here at NEDA. We require that applicants with personal experience who are interested in getting involved with the National Eating Disorders Association have two years of strong recovery due to the intense and triggering nature of this position.
Technical/Operational Requirements:
- Desktop or laptop with reliable internet access.
- Earbuds, headphones, or a headset with a microphone.
- Due to the delicate and sensitive nature of Helpline calls, volunteers must find a quiet and private space to handle live calls in order to protect and maintain confidentiality.