When you enter the local hospital, some of the first people you might see are the smiling folks in the blue vests.
If you're not sure where you need to go, they can usually fix you up.
Kim McElroy is Manager of the Communications & Volunteer Department at the North Bay Regional Health Centre. She says those people are great ambassadors, and they're volunteers. " Our way-finding volunteers or Ambassadors are some of the first people patients and visitors see when entering the facility. Most people are surprised to learn we have 30 program areas where volunteers provide support on a daily basis," she adds.
McElroy says it's a sense of satisfaction from giving back, that inspires many of the hospital helpers. "One of the biggest motivations for our volunteers is making a meaningful contribution to the hospital and the community. We are often told one of the most rewarding experiences is putting a smile on a patient’s face."
While many of those giving their time are older, she says there is a shift to younger volunteers as well, explaining that "we have volunteers of all ages who generously share their time and talent. Almost half of our volunteers are over the age of 70, however, we’ve seen a change in volunteer demographics and trends. Over the past couple of years, we have seen an increased demand from youth for volunteer opportunities that allow them to gain a hands-on experience in a healthcare facility. While younger volunteers are still interested in giving back to their community, they are also looking for opportunities for learning connected to future careers."
In fact, the centre has recently created a program specifically to help youth interested in a future related to the health profession. "Last summer we introduced a program called LEAD (Learn, Experience, Accomplish and Develop) which combines a volunteer placement with learning opportunities geared toward youth aged 16-29 who are interested in healthcare."
If you're interested in getting involved, McElroys says you "are encouraged to submit a completed volunteer application package to the Volunteer Department. Once you submit your application it will be reviewed, taking into account your experience, skills and availability along with our current volunteer needs. Before applying, we encourage people to visit the volunteer section on the hospital website for more information about the volunteer intake process and requirements."
Currently, she is seeking help in specific departments, noting they are "accepting applications for inpatient programs such as our Friendly Visiting Program and Hospital Elder Life Program, and fundraising programs such as the Gift Shop and HELPP Tickets."
Over 250 volunteers support the work at NBRHC, and McElroy says she hears a lot about how much they enjoy giving back to their community by giving their time. "There are also studies that show volunteering provides physical, mental and emotional benefit to the volunteer," she adds.
