Being a SAFEHOUSE buddy allows me to keep the promise I made to my teenage self - that I would do my part in providing a listening ear, and a safe space to those that need one. Even a small difference like seeing an emoji/ tone change over the course of a conversation, keeps me going knowing I’ve helped made their day better, even if it’s just for a while. You’d never know what someone else is going through, so if you can do a little something to add joy and care, it’s always worth the time and effort!

What I like particularly is the flexibility that SAFEHOUSE offers volunteers to support youths more conveniently and consistently in an online community.

Growing up through difficult seasons, I often wished I had someone who would simply walk alongside me. That’s why I became a SAFEHOUSE Buddy, to be the person I once needed. Someone who shows up, offers hope that things can be different, reminds young people that they matter beyond what they achieve, and that they don’t have to face life alone.

I chose to be a SAFEHOUSE buddy because fundamentally, it's difficult to not show up for someone who needs emotional support, especially if I have the power to be there for them, especially when it's needed the most. Because I know what it's like to be on the other end of it. But beyond being a listening ear, I have gained so much out of this journey through exchanging stories and perspectives with the youths, who stayed with me through what I had to say and gave me advice that helped me too.

Youths and mental health both have a special place in my heart. Volunteering with SAFEHOUSE not only provides me with a glimpse but also new perspectives into the struggles and challenges of youths today, while allowing me to connect to the inner child inside of me!

Being a SAFEHOUSE buddy has been both tough but rewarding at the same time. We get to connect with youths beyond just the issues they face and get to know them as people through a diverse range of conversations. It has been a meaningful time connecting and chatting w the youths!

My years as a SAFEHOUSE Buddy has helped me grow more confident in supporting my friends who need a listening ear! It makes anonymous online support less scary and it’s nice to have been part of a supportive community where youths share their struggles and find connection!

Being a buddy has allowed me to talk to youths from all walks of life with varied experiences and worldviews. One of the greatest joys is seeing how everyone has grown through our journey together. It is the tireless support from the SAFEHOUSE community (Limitless staff, buddies, and the users themselves!) that keeps me committed to volunteering.

Being a buddy at SAFEHOUSE has taught me a lot about listening and being attentive to what others' are saying. My time here has given me a lot of strength and joy as I journey alongside these youths in some of the toughest periods of their life.

I've always believed that service begins with noticing: being present enough to understand someone else’s perspective, while allowing their experiences to shape our own. My time volunteering with SAFEHOUSE has reminded me how reciprocal that process can be. In supporting the youths through their mental health journeys, I've learnt how to listen more intentionally, communicate with greater empathy and patience. Most of all, buddying has prompted in me a more honest personal reflection. It is a reminder that care is rarely one-directional, and that we can grow through simply being there for one another.