Q&A with Scott Bennett – A sense of purpose through giving back

At Crisis Text Line, our donors have a direct impact on changing lives and ensuring that no one faces their darkest moments alone. Thanks to generous supporters like Scott Bennett, who is also one of our volunteer Crisis Counselors, accessible and free mental health support is available 24/7 to our texters when they need it the most. This month, we’re honored to recognize Scott for both his generosity as a donor, and his dedication as a volunteer.

Q: What initially inspired you to support Crisis Text Line?
A: I’ve been a volunteer Crisis Counselor with Crisis Text Line since 2022, and in that time, I have seen firsthand the benefit the service provides to people who need help the most. I’ve had conversations with about 1,500 people in crisis. We do vital work here, and I decided to start making an automatic monthly donation to help support the mission in addition to volunteering.

Q: Can you share a personal story or moment that reinforced your commitment to supporting individuals in crisis?
A: There are so many. Fairly early on, having a texter tell me that I had saved their life was something that stuck with me. As difficult as this work can be sometimes, knowing that you’ve changed a life makes it all worthwhile.

Q: Why is it important to you to support mental health initiatives, particularly crisis intervention?
A: For one thing, I’ve been there. But also, I think it’s our duty as humans to do what we can to make the world a little better for everyone else. Talking someone through one of their worst days is a great way to do that. It has incalculable ripple effects on a huge number of people.

Q: How do you see your contributions making a difference in the lives of those reaching out for help?
A: I’ve noticed a lot more volunteers have been recruited to help people in need, especially at night. Clearly a lot of work has been done to recruit and train new volunteers, and that has led directly to a reduction in the amount of time people have to wait before talking to a volunteer.

Q: What drives your philanthropic giving overall, and why do you prioritize Crisis Text Line in your charitable efforts?
A: Trying to do as much good for people as possible. Crisis Text Line utilized funding efficiently, and I see firsthand the good it does. It’s not a black box.

Q: How has giving back to a cause that is meaningful to you impacted you personally or professionally?
A: It has helped me keep my own mental health on a good path. More importantly, doing this gives me a sense of purpose and direction that I don’t often get from other parts of my life.

Q: What would you say to others who are considering donating to Crisis Text Line?
A: Do it! And consider signing up to volunteer as well. It’s life changing work, both for you, and the people you help.

Q: How do you take care of your own mental health?
A: By volunteering. In addition to Crisis Text Line, I volunteer at a local organization that makes and delivers meals to people with life threatening illnesses. That one is in person and physically active- I chop vegetables one night a week, prep meals for distribution on Saturday mornings, then deliver a route to about a dozen clients on Saturday afternoons. I’ve always found that action is the best cure for the anxiety I normally struggle with. Spending time doing something tangibly good where I can see results almost always alleviates anything I’m personally struggling with.

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You can also make a direct impact on transforming and saving lives by donating to Crisis Text Line or becoming a volunteer. Help us support those who need it most!