HISTORY

Concern Hotline was conceived in 1968 by a small group of people who were concerned about the high suicide rate in Winchester. It was not only the highest in the state but was more than double the national average.  Those concerned individuals – including Dr. Kic Kiczales, Patricia & Judge Henry Whiting, and Bettie Johnston – formed a task force to study the problem and develop a support service for people considering suicide.  In April 1970, Concern Hotline went into service for the City of Winchester, as well as Frederick and Clarke counties.  In 1978, the Northwestern Community Services Board awarded Concern Hotline the contract to provide 24-hour crisis intervention service to the City of Winchester and Frederick, Clarke, Warren, Shenandoah, and Page counties.

Concern Hotline is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization incorporated in the state of Virginia on April 16th, 1979.

MANDATE

Our mission is to comfort and calm community members experiencing stress or crisis by providing a trained, compassionate listener 24 hours a day.

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OUR EXPERTISE

HEALTH

MENTAL HEALTH

Mental health is a growing concern worldwide, with one in four people experiencing a mental health disorder at some point in their lives. Depression and anxiety are the most common mental health disorders, affecting an estimated 300 million people globally.

SUPPORT

COMMUNITY

Positive community support is the backbone of a thriving society. When neighbors come together to lift each other up, incredible things happen. From small acts of kindness to larger initiatives, the power of community support is unmatched. Please visit our "Source Book" page for any community support programs offered in our general area!

RIGHTS

HUMAN RIGHTS

Mental health is a fundamental human rights issue that affects millions of individuals worldwide. The right to mental health includes access to mental health care, treatment, and support without discrimination. Everyone has the right to live free from stigmatization and discrimination based on their mental health condition.

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TEAM MEMBERS

Rusty Holland

Rusty Holland

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

(540) 536-1632
[email protected]

Kelsi Winter

Kelsi Winter

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR

(540) 536-1632
[email protected]

BECOME A VOLUNTEER

Coming Together to Support Our Community:

Volunteering is an incredible way to make a difference in your community and positively impact the lives of others. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, please reach out via email and we would love to work with you!

OUR PARTNERS

Come join our ever-growing list of community partners.  See what a difference we can make. Together.