About Us
Distress Centre Calgary (DCC) has provided 24 hour crisis support in Calgary and southern Alberta since 1970. We do this through our 24 hour crisis line, email, daily chat, and daily text for our youth. We also have professional counselling for clients with issues that cannot be resolved over the phone. If you need help finding a social, community or government service, 211 is available by phone and online chat. Our Coordinated Access and Assessment (CAA) program serves Calgarians experiencing homelessness out of the Safe Communities Opportunity and Resource Centre (SORCe). All of our services are free.
We do not define crisis. We do not judge. Anyone can call us day or night.
Mission: Provide compassionate, accessible crisis support that enhances the health, well-being and resiliency of individuals in distress.
Vision: Everyone is heard.
Values: Accessibility, Collaboration, Compassion, Excellence, Inclusivity, Innovation, Leadership, Partnerships, Respect, Volunteerism
Jerilyn Dressler
Executive Director
Jerilyn Dressler began her work with Distress Centre as a crisis line volunteer from 2001-2003, before completing her Bachelor of Arts in psychology at the University of Saskatchewan in 2007. Upon returning to Calgary she rejoined the Distress Centre team, providing professional support for crisis line volunteers. In 2015, Jerilyn completed her Masters of Social Work with a specialization in Leadership in the Human Services.
At the national level, Jerilyn sits on the InformCanada board which provides leadership and guidance in the field of information and referral. Jerilyn is an authentic, collaborative, and transformative leader who brings her passion and vision to every team and project she is a part of.