Why Hospital Volunteers Matter More Than Ever

When most people think about heath care and hospitals, they picture doctors, nurses, technicians, therapists, support staff and clinical professionals. Yet some of the most meaningful moments in a patient's health care journey are made possible by another group of dedicated individuals-volunteers.

"I see firsthand the impact volunteers have on our patients, families and our entire team every day," says Seth Rosenbaum, MD, MMM, Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton, an RWJBarnabas Health facility. "While they may not provide medical care, volunteers help create something equally important-a welcoming, compassionate environment that supports healing."

For patients a volunteer's smile, kind conversation or helping hand can make a stressful day feel a little lighter for a moment. Whether escorting someone to an appointment, assisting visitors with wayfinding, delivering comfort items, providing spiritual support, playing a harp, delivering pet therapy, knitting a blanket or performing Reiki, volunteers help patients and impact their care.

What Are Five Reasons to Become a Hospital Volunteer?

1. Make a Meaningful Difference
   
   A simple act of kindness, a warm greeting, helping someone find their way or offering a reassuring presence can make a lasting impact on a patient or family member during a difficult or uncertain time.
   
2. Give Back to Your Community
   
   Volunteering is a powerful way to support a local organization that cares for your neighbors, friends and even loved ones. Your time helps strengthen the health and wellbeing of the entire community you call home.
   
3. Gain Purpose and Connection
   
   Volunteers often describe their service as rewarding and fulfilling. It's an opportunity to meet new people, build new relationships and experience personal satisfaction of helping others.
   
4. Learn and Grow
   
   Whether you're exploring healthcare careers, an adult looking to develop new skills or experiences, or a retiree seeking meaningful engagement, volunteering offers valuable experiences and lifelong learning opportunities, as well as being impressive on a resume.
   
5. Support People and People Who Care for People
   
   "Volunteers are the quiet force behind the scenes," adds Dr. Rosenbaum. "They are an extraordinary group of people whose compassion, generosity, talent and commitment help transform healthcare into a truly human experience. The time they give to our hospital helps strengthen the fabric of compassionate care."

Ready to Get Involved?

Volunteers are asked to commit to one shift per week, typically 3 to 4 hours per week, for a minimum of one year. Most assignments take place during regular business hours, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Limited opportunities may also be available outside of these hours. Volunteers serve in a variety of areas throughout the hospital, including the mailroom, stock room, food service areas and patient care units where they provide administrative support.

Taking the first step is easy. Complete and submit a Volunteer Interest Form or Adult Volunteer Profile Form. The application process typically takes a few weeks and includes requirements that must be completed prior to starting.

Learn more and apply online today at rwjbh.org/hamiltonvolunteer