Kids Call is an interactive session via speakerphone for youth to hear straight from the NRS front line team of staff and volunteers what youth face when they are contemplating running away or have run away. Kids Call helps participants explore the issues facing runaway and homeless youth, as well as alternatives to running away . We'll answer questions such as: "How long are runaways gone? What makes someone run away? What can I do instead of running away?"

Here's how Kids Call works:

1. Brainstorm with your class, group or youth questions about runaway issues. Here are some common questions about runaways. Be sure to add your own questions too.

• What makes someone run away?
• Where do they go?
• When do they decide to go home?
• Do runaways go to jail?
• How do they get home if they don't have any money?
• What are the most common reasons for calling the National Runaway Switchboard?
• How long are runaways gone?
• Do all runaways go home?
• What can I do if someone I know is wanting to run away? Or has run away?

2. To schedule a Kids Call session, call the Prevention Specialist at 773-289-1723 or email at Prevention@1800RUNAWAY.org

3. A time will be scheduled for your class, group or youth to speak with a front line staff member or volunteer to facilitate a discussion about runaway issues, answer questions and have an opportunity to experience a "mock" call.

4. The National Runaway Switchboard (NRS) will ask the group leader or teacher to fill out a Kids Call evaluation form and return it to NRS via mail or fax 773-929-5150.