The Volunteer Staff

Volunteers play a crucial, central role in HELP by carrying out interventions directly at the bedside.

Unique Role:

• The level of patient contact and responsibility make HELP unique among hospital volunteer programs.
• Older patients find particular comfort in the assistance of well-trained, calm, patient, caring lay people.

Selection Process:

• Each volunteer is recruited and screened by the Hospital Volunteer Services Department and the HELP program.
• Desirable attributes include being responsible, mature, caring and respectful of older adults.

Time Commitment:

• Volunteer training is extensive and expensive. Therefore volunteers are asked to make a time commitment of at least one 4 hour shift per week for a minimum of 6 months.

Preparation for Role:

• 16 hours of classroom instruction which includes didactic training, small group demonstration, role playing and case discussions.
• 16 hours of precepted training, paired with a staff member or an experienced volunteer, and interacting with patients.
• Successful completion of competency-based checklists initially and quarterly.
• The classroom and clinical mentoring provided via HELP protocols provide a safe, structured program for volunteers to learn new skills.

Volunteer Retention:

• Communication with HELP and hospital staff during each volunteer shift.
• Quarterly educational sessions and discussion groups.
• Monthly newsletter geared toward volunteer interests and concerns.
• Volunteer recognition incentive awards.