Thames Schoenvogel never knows exactly what to expect when she answers a call to the YWCA’s domestic violence crisis line, but her greatest desire is to let the woman on the phone know she’s not alone.

“So often in the calls I take, someone just needs a sympathetic ear,” Schoenvogel said. “She may not be ready to leave, but I can let her know that what’s happening is not OK, we can brainstorm together and I can offer her resources. I may not solve her problem that day, but I can help her get one step closer to a safe, healthy place.”

YWCA Central Alabama is seeking volunteers to help answer the 24-Hour Crisis Line between 8:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Shifts are in 3-4 hour increments weekly or every other week.