College Heights SDA Church Launches a "Virtual" Helpline

Submitted by Adrian Schmidt, Elder at College Heights SDA Church

The College Heights SDA Church has launched a free helpline that allows for more "connection" in this time of need. When you call the toll-free number [+1(844) 844-8248], a friendly voice (after clarifying that this is not an emergency or medical advice line) guides the caller through a simple menu of options: to simply chat with someone (if feeling lonely), to request grocery or medication pickup, to have someone pray with you, to talk with a pastor, or to speak with a certified counselor.

Who answers the calls? College Heights SDA members! From listening, praying, and helping pick up groceries to technical assistance for accessing the Internet and the church’s live-streamed worship service, ten people have volunteered their time and efforts to make this helpline a reality.

Is the system available 24/7? You can call at any time, but the volunteers work on the line from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m., Monday through Friday. If you call outside of these hours and leave your contact information in a voicemail, they will be more than happy to call you back on the next available day.

How does the system work? The system, based entirely on the “cloud” (on the Internet), connects telephony with computers and personal devices, allowing people to communicate over the phone using what is called "unified communications," where the system "follows" the volunteers wherever they are, making it easier to reach them.

Is there a monetary cost to this system? Yes, but thanks to a generous donation by a CHSDA family, the costs of the first year are covered.

What's been the biggest challenge so far? For now, the biggest problem is that we don't get enough calls!