Our CalYouth!

When a youth reaches out, we are the first voice they hear.

I’ve had the privilege of working closely with the volunteers who answer those calls- compassionate, skilled individuals who show up with clarity, empathy, and purpose. They’re ready because, at the California Youth Crisis Line, we believe in investing in our community. We provide professional training to every volunteer, and we know we couldn’t do this work without them.

At CalYouth, we believe early intervention starts with real people who are trained to listen, connect, and respond. Together, we take over 20,000 calls annually, and connect youth to thousands of resources like shelter, mental health support, and basic needs that everyone deserves. 

This work is about accessibility and putting youth needs first. That’s what makes our mission so important. We are California’s only youth 24/7 crisis line, and our volunteers understand what that responsibility means.

More than 50% of adults experiencing chronic homelessness report that it began before adulthood. That’s why we don’t wait to intervene. That’s why we stay open 24/7 every day of the year. And we need your help to keep it that way.

When you donate, you’re helping us build the next generation of crisis line volunteers- a strong, prepared team so that every youth who reaches out finds someone ready to hear them, help them, and guide them forward.