We believe our callers are most comfortable with operators that have “been there”. Do you have lived experience? Do you have harm reduction experience? Can you stay calm during an emergency? Do you want to be involved with saving lives? If so, we need you!

Requirements 

Abstinence is not required. We believe that people who use substances are just as valuable as people who do not. With our service, we actually prefer that our operators have experience with drug use. 

Duties and Responsibilities

As a NUA volunteer, you would be responsible for answering incoming calls on your cell phone or landline. You will ask the caller for their location information. You will remain on the call while the person uses their substance and just talk with them. If the caller experiences an adverse drug event and stops responding, then you will contact emergency medical services and provide the caller’s location to get help to them.

Hours and Availability

You choose your availability to receive calls. There are no designated “shifts”. You will be added to our Discord server after training. When you are free, and have some time to go on, you just let us know in Discord, and a “Moderator” will turn your line off/on at your request.

Disqualifications (Automatic)  

We do not accept applications from anyone working at a treatment facility in a role such as a “Business Development Specialist”, “Outreach Coordinator” or any other role in which you are responsible for gaining new clients for the facility. We cannot risk our line being used as a fishing lure for a treatment center. 

Trauma / Trigger Warning

This position is highly stressful and can sometimes be traumatic. While the vast majority of calls end safely, you will likely detect and respond to an adverse drug event call where the person becomes unresponsive. All you can do is call for help, then listen, while you wait for emergency medical services to arrive. If you cannot handle crisis situations, this probably isn’t the position for you, and that’s okay.

Mental Health Care  

We have mental health professionals who volunteer their time to help our operators work through traumatic events, or to decompress from a tough call call. This position can be extremely mentally, and emotionally challenging. It can also be one of the most rewarding positions you’ll ever have!

If you have lived experience with substance use, or harm reduction experience, and can stay calm in an emergency, please fill out an application.  If your application is accepted, we will contact you for a phone interview, and schedule operator training shortly thereafter.

Thank you for your interest in helping out. We look forward to speaking with you! Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions about the process.