When you first arrive at the hospital, the first person to greet you is most likely one of our volunteers. They are ready to assist patients to appointments and escort guests to their loved ones on the hospital floor. You’ll find volunteers in the Trinity Gift Shop – changing window displays or delivering flowers and gifts. While other volunteers are assisting patients after procedures or treatments, including those in Same Day Surgery or at the Norma Schmoker Cancer Center. We also have volunteers that help employees by getting patients a snack, drink or a comforting, warm blanket. As well as volunteers to assist with laboratory runs from the clinics, with infection control by wiping down wheelchairs and other high-traffic areas, and by calling individuals at home through the telecare program.

Our volunteers are all ages and come from all walks of life, from high school and college students interested in a health care career to retirees wanting to stay active, while sharing compassion and experience. No matter their background or experiences, our volunteers strive to make a difference in the lives of those around them. Each volunteer has a meaningful and challenging assignment. They are able to share their talents and skills in nearly every area of the hospital. They create a positive, friendly environment and help our patients experience a higher level of warmth and caring.

Being a volunteer allows individuals to meet new friends, with similar interests, while serving and giving back. While there are many different reasons why someone chooses to volunteer – to give back to their community, support a specific cause or to make a difference – no matter their reason, they make a difference. They truly touch the lives of others – staff, patients, visitors, and other volunteers – while interacting with these individuals.

Additionally, our volunteers provide support unparalleled to any monetary means. They are compassionate, driven and provide great ideas and insight. They devote their time to helping others in our organization and community. The time they donate helps provide a safe and welcoming space for our patients, guests and employees for years to come. They are priceless to us and truly touch the lives of others while spending their days at the hospital. Their dedication and commitment is sincerely appreciated.

-Submitted photo
Volunteer Kap Linder enjoys helping people and being part of the team at Trinity.

To show our appreciation for their dedication and commitment, we offer many benefits. On the day they volunteer, these individuals receive a free meal in the cafeteria and a 20 percent discount in the Trinity Gift Shop. Volunteers are invited to participate in employee appreciation events and are able to attend the annual Volunteer Recognition Event.

We also recognize our volunteers by pins and certificates. You can see how long a volunteer has worked at the hospital by counting the number of pins they have on their signature blue vests.

And as an extension to our team, they go through the same process as our employees – by completing a volunteer application, having an interview, reference and background check. New volunteers attend employee orientation and then learn the position by shadowing a trained, experienced volunteer.

We are fortunate to have an exceptional group of volunteers and an outstanding auxiliary supporting its efforts to improve our community’s health. If you know a volunteer, be sure to give them a big thank you for their time and dedication to helping our organization and community thrive.

To find out more about our volunteer program, please contact Connie Springer, volunteer coordinator, at (515)-574-6566 or me, Alison Hanna, manager of volunteer and guest services, at (515) 574-6099.

Alison Hanna is the manager of volunteer and guest services at UnityPoint Health – Trinity Regional Medical Center.