Currently all training spots are filled.
Thank you!
Moderated chatrooms allow us to offer a space where young people can gather, form community, and support and uplift each other.
We offer online chatrooms available to LGBTQIA+ youth. Trained moderators take the lead within those chatrooms to make sure the chatroom stays safe and appropriate.
We’re looking for moderators who can find the balance between leading a conversation and providing a space where young people can find their own voice and create their own topics.
Additionally, moderators safeguard the rooms from trolls and hate speech to create a safe space for young people to feel comfortable to be themselves and to grow.
Moderator volunteers make a minimum commitment of two hours a week, the same time each week, for at least 12 months after training is complete.
The chatrooms are Safe Spaces where youth can be open with their feelings, talk about fears or doubts, but also talk about the victories and good things that have happened in their lives. We encourage young people to join the chatrooms as often as they like, week after week, so they can form friendships and create support circles. The chatrooms are spaces where people can be themselves and let their guards down. It can be a place to vent over a hard day or to talk about their first shot of testosterone. At times the rooms can be serious and the conversation can be about coming out, discrimination or bullying, but other times it can be about favorite bands or the latest show binged on Netflix.
The role of the Moderators is to create a Safe Space where youth feel they can be open with their emotions and express themselves freely. This can be accomplished by kind and affirming words, giving each person the respect they deserve, and protecting the chatroom from pranks or verbal attacks. Moderators often provide information and resources while moderating the conversations as well. Sometimes the Moderator will lead a discussion, ask open-ended questions, or answer questions about the LGBTQIA+ community.
Moderators must be at least 18 years old
Commit to a 2-hour shift each week for at least 12 months (starting after training)
Access to high-speed internet
Must be able to use a laptop or desktop, you can not use a phone
Basic internet knowledge
Ability to type and communicate in English
Mature nature, but able to connect with young people
Strong conversation skills
If you are selected as a volunteer, we want to stress the importance of feeling highly confident that you can honor your commitment to being available for your chatroom shift (with the exception of illness or vacation). Some volunteer opportunities lend themselves to greater flexibility than we do. This is NOT the case with this type of work, since volunteers are moderating an active youth chatroom, and if someone doesn't show up for their shift, the chatroom can't open. So please, give careful thought to your schedule to make sure you feel comfortable with making this one-year commitment.
Completing the application and shift availability form below.
Phone conversation and interview. This will be a chance to get to know us, and for us to get to know you. We'll be able to answer questions you may have.
Complete an online study course.
Shadow a current moderator for several sessions.
We realize there are many volunteering opportunities out there, and we want to thank you for your interest in volunteering with us!
Please fill out the application and we will get in touch with you shortly.
(contact information in the application form will not be shared with any third parties)
As of 4/15/24 all training spots are full. If you are interested in volunteering please know it may be a few months before we begin training again.
