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Ally Program > First Contact

1.  When people need to talk to someone about a problem, they might feel:

  • Confused
  • Lonely
  • Like they were the only one who ever felt this way
  • Overwhelmed
  • Uninterested in fully working out the problem


2.  When people approach you, they have probably already judged whether you will be a good listener. They have asked themselves these questions:

  • Will you understand me?
  • Will you have time for me?
  • Will you tell others?
  • Will you judge me?


3.  People do not always make appointments with an Ally! They often choose the times and environments in which they confront us with an issue. Being an Ally means recognizing the opportunity to be a caring helper and a good listener.


Ask yourself these questions:

  • Why would a person come to an Ally—instead of a friend or a professional counselor—with a problem?
  • Would people consider you approachable if they had problems that made them feel lonely, confused, etc.?
  • What qualities do people look for in someone they consider approachable?
  • How can you make yourself more approachable?