The After Hours Peer Support Centre at Mount Royal University provides immediate, non-judgemental assistance to students facing crises, including emotional distress, mental health challenges, academic difficulties, and personal issues. Operating from Monday to Thursday and Saturday, 4:00 pm to 11:00 pm, the Centre is staffed by Peer Support Student Volunteers and Peer Support Practicum Students who are extensively trained to handle crisis situations. 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, counseling, 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 your peers during challenging times. You will create a welcoming and inclusive space, provide supportive listening, and 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 in areas such as mental health and wellness, crisis support, and distress awareness.

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.