Q&A with JD Schramm – With Stewardship “…we get back more than we contribute.”

At Crisis Text Line, the generosity of our donors is what sustains our ability to impact and transform lives. Through their stewardship, we are able to provide training and support for our volunteer Crisis Counselors, who in turn are there for our texters during their darkest moments. One such donor, JD Schramm, went from texter to volunteer Crisis Counselor, and is now a monthly donor. This month, we recognize JD for his support and dedication in helping us to ensure no one faces their mental health struggles alone. 

Q: What initially inspired you to support Crisis Text Line?
A: I came to Crisis Text Line first as a user, later as a volunteer Crisis Counselor, and eventually as a monthly donor. I’ve seen first hand the power of Crisis Text Line and want to do all I can to support this service for others.

Q: Can you share a personal story or moment that reinforced your commitment to supporting individuals in crisis?
A: During my first 600 hours as a volunteer Crisis Counselor, I experienced the profound impact we could have “texting with strangers in the middle of the night.” One night in particular stands out. I was randomly matched with a texter who was skeptical of the value I could provide. They “tested” me a bit to verify it was a real human replying, not an AI bot. Once we started doing a simple grounding exercise, called 54321, they warmed up and shared more with me. Ultimately, they were facing issues with their teenage son that they felt they could not tell anyone else. The details of what they shared are unimportant (and confidential), but what I got from the conversation was that it was the first time they’d ever divulged their fears and journey. It was a watershed moment for them, and it was my privilege to simply let them share. Near the end of the conversation, I had a few vetted resources to offer and could tell they were relieved to have been able to share and gain access to resources directly tied to their son’s issue. Moreover, they were given a chance to be heard. I was a fan before, but that night I became an evangelist.

Q: Why is it important to you to support mental health initiatives, particularly crisis intervention?
A: Today, more than ever, people are facing crises unimaginable just a few years ago. I’ve had to pause my serving as a volunteer Crisis Counselor for a season, but I want to do all I can within my means to ensure the service remains available to all who need it. Through the silent service of texting, we can allow other voices to be heard and needs be met. That sounds like an oxymoron, but it’s proven true for me conversation after conversation.

Q: How do you see your contributions making a difference in the lives of those reaching out for help?
A: My monthly contribution may not be much, but when it’s matched with gifts from others, it becomes a force for good. And, since I can do my gift automatically, over the course of a few years now, I can feel the impact of a larger gift to Crisis Text Line that did not feel like a burden to contribute.

Q: What drives your philanthropic giving overall, and why do you prioritize Crisis Text Line in your charitable efforts?
A: My husband and I have contributed at least 10% of our gross earnings for the year. It began as a spiritual practice, but has grown into a lifeline for the organizations we treasure. It’s actually kind of fun each year to sit and discuss where we want our resources to combine with others and help make an impact. Crisis Text Line always makes the list, because we both know first hand the loneliness of fighting addiction and depression without any support. Our gifts help to ensure others don’t have to face that same isolation.

Q: How has giving back to a cause that is meaningful to you impacted you personally or professionally?
A: First, we frankly don’t miss it. Each month, we believe we get back more than we contribute. Our stewardship of the resources we have is evident in the support we send to Crisis Text Line. We don’t just “feel good” about our contributions, we see the impact and feel like investors watching our stocks increase in value. We take pride in the growth and expansion of Crisis Text Line knowing our support helped that to happen.

Q: What would you say to others who are considering donating to Crisis Text Line?
A: Don’t hesitate…step up and lean into this. The organization is extremely efficient, making it even easier to provide our support. We know it’s not going to be wasted on frivolities or unnecessary overhead. It is philanthropic investment at its best.

Q: How do you take care of your own mental health?
A: My greatest source of renewal is down time with my kids (7 & 10). They make me laugh and realize that I’m taking life too seriously. They consistently give me great reasons to put down my phone and look up at what they are doing. While parenting can, for sure, add stress, it can be one of my greatest stress relievers. This is enhanced by intentional consumption. I watch carefully what goes in my mouth, eyes, and ears. This practice has helped me lose weight, gain wisdom, and avoid doomscrolling.

___

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!