Volunteers are the Heart and Soul of Washington Health

Ever consider volunteering but wondering if it’s right for you?

Just about everyone is a good volunteer candidate at Washington Health. “A caring heart, a helpful attitude, a friendly nature, and an attention to detail are all that are needed,” says Jill Ziman, president of the Service League at Washington Health, the organization that oversees the health system’s more than 600 volunteers.

Washington Health is built on a culture of service to others. “For most, if not all our volunteers, volunteerism is a core value. Volunteers want to be productive and help the community. Some have shared that they want to give back to the hospital community for the care they or their loved ones have received from Washington Health,” she adds.

Now in its 71^st year, the Service League has always been received positively and with gratitude from both patients and staff. Later this month, the Service League marks National Volunteer Week from April 19-25, a celebration held annually around the country to recognize the impact of volunteer service. Established in 1974, the week honors individuals who lend their time and talent to strengthen communities and inspire others to serve.

Washington Health is acknowledging its volunteers with their annual luncheon held in Conrad Anderson, MD, auditorium in the Washington West building.

From Teens to Retirees

From 16-year-olds who volunteer to play music in the lobby to retirees who update families while a loved one is in surgery, and everything in between, Washington Health’s volunteers find that they receive just as much as the give, according to Ziman.

“Volunteering is healing for the soul of the community and also a way to heal your own soul,” she says. “Washington Health is a great choice for volunteering.

The most popular volunteer assignments are those that provide hands-on experience, Ziman explains, especially assisting the nursing units. “We also get a lot of inquiries for baby cuddling, and to hold and rock infants in the Special Care Nursery to help them thrive and develop when parents can’t be there.”

When requested, Spiritual Care Providers converse with and comfort patients of all faiths and cultural backgrounds. Mended Hearts volunteers bring support, education, and advocacy to patients with cardiovascular conditions.

Volunteer Assignments Vary

Volunteers also serve in non-patient roles, including Lobby Greeters who welcome visitors to the hospital. The Wayfinders escort patients to their destinations and provide information about navigating the health system. Piano, cello and violin players volunteer their talents in the lobby to create a soothing atmosphere as people arrive. Gift Shop assistants help shoppers choose a card, floral arrangement, toy, or other cheery gift for patients.

The No One Dies Alone Program pairs volunteers with patients at the end of life to offer emotional support when loved ones can’t be present. The WOOF Program brings certified therapy dogs to offer tail-wagging and healing to patients.

Other volunteers serve in the imaging and cancer centers, or make handmade quilts, knitted and crocheted baby bonnets, and other gifts.

Ziman’s advice for anyone considering a volunteer role is simple: “To borrow a phrase from an athletic company, ‘Just do it.’ ”

Adult and college students interested in volunteering are invited to apply. High school students will be put on a waiting list for an opportunity. The application process includes a background check, medical screening, and attendance at an orientation meeting. Training is provided. For more information on the Washington Health Service League, go to WashingtonHealth.com/volunteer.