The After Hours Peer Support Centre offers free, confidential, compassionate and non-judgmental support for any student in crisis or distress. Our trained volunteers offer peer support, crisis management, information and resources for students who need someone to talk to. Operating from Monday to Friday, 2:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Please note that Centre hours are subject to change. A Centre Coordinator oversees operations and, along with volunteers, offers support to students by connecting them with university resources, counselling, and community support.

What Volunteers Can Expect

As a volunteer with the After Hours Peer Support Centre, you will play a vital role in supporting peers during challenging times. You will create a welcoming and inclusive space, provide supportive listening, use trauma-informed care practices when interacting with individuals in distress. Volunteers will also help students identify goals, create action plans, and navigate potential barriers. The Centre offers significant training opportunities for volunteers in areas such as crisis support, risk assessment (or suicide prevention), and supportive listening.

Expectations of volunteers:

• Commit to a minimum of 4 hours per week, from September to April, during the Centre's operation hours.
• Adhere to confidential, non-judgmental, supportive listening practices.
• Build rapport, communicate effectively, and establish trust with students in crisis.
• Empower individuals to recognize their resources and strengths for self-support.
• Refer individuals to appropriate resources when necessary.