Frequently Asked Questions

Here are a few frequently asked questions about Empower Work, our text service, and our volunteers. 

About Empower Work

Is Empower Work really free?

Yes! Thanks to the generous support of individual donors, foundations, and volunteers. How’s that for paying it forward? Learn more about why and how we’re free.

Does Empower Work provide legal advice?

No, we do not provide legal advice. We do provide rights information, as needed. If people have legal questions, we share vetted, free legal resources, refer to nonprofit or government resources for information, or discuss options for connecting with legal aid or attorney services.

Is my conversation confidential?

Yes, conversations are confidential. We suggest using an incognito browser or disabling cookies and clearing your history after a conversation. We also recommend using a personal phone or computer.

Who are Empower Work peer counselors?

Peer counselors are all working professionals. They generously volunteer their time to support people through their trickiest challenges at work. Our peer counselors come from diverse professional backgrounds and are motivated to give back to the community. Every peer counselor undergoes a selection process and receives robust training (more than 20 hours) to prepare them for the role. Read more about them here.

Can I call Empower Work?

No, we are a text- and web-based service.

How do you use data?

We use data in two ways. First, we use feedback from texters (for example, through post-use surveys) to adjust our service and help us create the best experience for people who text us and volunteers.

Second, we review aggregate contextual data--such as the time of day people contact us, and the topics they reach out to us about--to help illuminate larger workplace trends. Sometimes we do this in partnership with researchers or community partners to inform policies, practices, or approaches to building more equitable, inclusive workplaces.

All of our data is anonymous and randomized to protect the confidentiality of our texters.

Volunteering with Empower Work

What’s It like being a peer counselor?

Volunteering with Empower Work is a rewarding opportunity to flex your management, coaching, and active listening skills. Check out this blog post for the top five reasons people volunteer with us. For more information check out our volunteer page. 

What’s the time commitment?

We ask that volunteers commit to at least two hours a week for six months. Beyond that, you can volunteer as much time as you have!

How do I become a peer counselor?

Check out this page to see all the details! Essentially: apply (a 10-15 minute application), explore our eLearning platform, do a screening call with our training team, and then complete 30 hours of interactive training—worth over $500—along with supportive, hands-on practice. At the end, you'll be a certified peer counselor ready to support people under the supervision of Empower Work staff!

Can I volunteer from anywhere?

Yes! Training are through our eLearning platform, available anywhere you have a secure internet connection! The sooner you apply the sooner you can get started! Start here. 

Are peer counselors paid?

No. Peer counselors are volunteers. Empower Work is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and volunteers are critical to our work. Volunteers say they find value in being part of network of peer counselors, helping people navigate their challenges, and building their professional skills that they can invest back into their workplace.