Q&A with Keith Cox – Making an Impact Through Donating and Volunteering

At Crisis Text Line, the generosity of our donors is what helps us continue to save and transform lives. One such donor, Keith Cox, who is also a volunteer Crisis Counselor, provides both his time and philanthropy as a way to take action and help those in need of mental health support. This month, we recognize Keith for his dedication as a donor and volunteer, and for joining us in our goal to ensure that no one faces their darkest moments alone.

Q: What initially inspired you to support Crisis Text Line?
A: Throughout my career and life, I’ve met many people struggling with mental illness. It’s very real, and I’m sure everyone knows someone with mental health issues. Sadly, some people take their lives over it. Crisis Text Line is a vital lifeline for someone who is in crisis and may be considering suicide. I’m very happy to support the work the organization does, and not only am I a donor, I volunteer as well.

Q: Can you share a personal story or moment that reinforced your commitment to supporting individuals in crisis?
A: I took back-to-back emergency service intervention calls for two people that were in the middle of attempting suicide and thankfully they reached out to Crisis Text Line. I’ve also had minors that reached out with suicidal thoughts. If children are thinking this as well as adults, this is an epidemic and it’s imperative to support them. I’m glad to be a part of that.

Q: Why is it important to you to support mental health initiatives, particularly crisis intervention?
A: First of all, thank you to anyone who supports any type of charity and great causes that need support. Mental health service funding has been hit very hard when we need it the most. If I can help save a life through financial donations or volunteering, I sure will do that. I hope you will as well.

Q: How do you see your contributions making a difference in the lives of those reaching out for help?
A: I see first hand because I volunteer at Crisis Text Line, and I know I’m making a difference from the many times a texter has thanked me. Sometimes, they say we’re the only place they can reach out to, and they can’t talk to their friends or family about this.

Q: What drives your philanthropic giving overall, and why do you prioritize Crisis Text Line in your charitable efforts?
A: I’ve always cared about what goes on in the world, and I always want to help. As Mr. Rogers said,  “When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’”

I donate to a lot of groups, and I volunteer as well. However, giving to Crisis Text Line is the most meaningful experience  that I can do because mental health is a very serious issue. I’m glad to be able to contribute to Crisis Text Line as we keep this service free, 24/7.

Q: How has giving back to a cause that is meaningful to you impacted you personally or professionally?
A: Everyone knows there’s a lot of bad in the world, and you feel helpless. You always hear people say–do something. And I’m one of those people that does something. I have dedicated my life to helping others as much as I can, both with time and donations. For me, it’s just the right thing to do.

Q: What would you say to others who are considering donating to Crisis Text Line?
A: I would encourage everyone to check out Crisis Text Line and look at some of the stories of the great work that’s being done. You will see the difference you can make, and it’s worth supporting that financially.

Q: How do you take care of your own mental health?
A: Hanging out with my family. I love nature and that’s a great way to relax, so I take a lot of walks in the woods. Plus, volunteering gives you a real sense of meaning that you are making a difference in the world, and that’s very important to my mental health.

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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!