Listenly: Technology for Emotional Support Communities
The Coronavirus Pandemic has inspired the creation of multiple regional initiatives providing emotional support to those affected.
Many of these initiatives share similar software needs, from onboarding to matching users with support providers.
Listenly has been conducting online emotional support for 2 years. We will open up the platform as a technology solution for other COVID initiatives for free.
Features
Below is a high level list of platform features. Our team is entirely focused on COVID-19 response. If there is enough demand for new functionality that we don't currently have from community partners, we will build it.
Searchable Directory
Searchable directory of listeners and service providers, including profile picture, bio, and areas of expertise.
Users can search by name or keyword such as languages spoken.
Text Chat
Fully featured, real-time chat between users and support providers.
Safe chatting through the platform so users do not need to exchange contact information.
Audio and Video Support
Connect with your users through live audio only or video call. Give your community real human connection even when isolated.
Booking and Scheduling
Integrate with Google Calendar and send event invites to both user and service provider.
*Calendar integration involves a cost per service provider
On-Demand Support
How do you your users get connected with a support provider?
Listenly allows users to sign on and request a session on-demand. Requests are placed in a queue and can be answered by support providers on a first-come, first serve basis.
New Feature:
Communities
Community leads can set up pages exclusively for their specific initiatives:
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Dedicated landing page
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Community leads list their own support providers, allowing them to vet their listeners according to their own criteria
New York
Toronto
Austin
Timeline: mid-April
Payment Processing
Most COVID initiatives are volunteer driven. However, if there is a need to process payment or bring on paid therapists and coaches, Listenly is integrated with Stripe.
Stripe could also be used to process donations for initiatives and volunteers
Mobile App
The mobile app will include all features from the web app, in addition to notifications.
Timeline: May
