The Crisis Response Team is a group of dedicated and professionally-trained volunteers who provide around the clock, on-scene, crisis intervention services in Tempe. The Team is called out by the Tempe Fire or Police Departments to aid community members during time of crisis.

The purpose of the Crisis Response Team is to provide immediate, high-quality crisis intervention, support, and referral services, allowing police and fire personnel to attend to law enforcement, medical emergency, and fire suppression needs. The team is made up of community volunteers and Master's of Social Work and Masters of Counseling interns working together as partners as on-scene responders.

Membership on the team is competitive. Orientations for prospective volunteers are held annually or semi-annually as dictated by need. After attending orientation, volunteers attend 24 hours of training over a two week period and then interview for openings. If selected, team member attend an additional 10 hours of training.

The selection process includes a complete background check, fingerprinting, and reference check. No prior crisis intervention experience is necessary, but caring, supportive listening skills are. Volunteers must be at least 21 years old and have the ability to lift children and climb stairs. Volunteers commit to 12 hours of service per month. Also, Team members meet the first Wednesday evening of every month for continuing education and to discuss their service experiences of the prior month.

For more information on the next orientation session, call  Kris Scharlau at 480-350-2969. Volunteers with weekday availability are especially needed.

For more information on the City of Tempe Volunteer Program, call 480-350-5190.