One of the Winchester District Memorial Hospital’s richest resources is its volunteers. Annually 160 volunteers donate upwards of 4000 hours to the hospital community.

Here’s why many volunteers continue to give their time to WDMH:

• Satisfaction of helping others
• Excellent volunteer support & training
• Diverse opportunities
• Learn & develop new skills
• Gain career-related experience
• Meet new & friendly people
• Build self-esteem & confidence
• Give back to people and a facility that has helped them or their family in the past

In addition to all of these reasons, volunteering at WDMH counts towards the 40 volunteer hours students now need in order to graduate from secondary school.

 

Volunteer Opportunities at WDMH

Opportunities at WDMH are as diverse as the volunteers themselves. Broadly defined, the opportunities can be broken down into 5 areas:

• Administration - Assisting WDMH staff in routine office tasks such as photocopying and office assistance in: Administration offices, Human Resources, Foundation & Community Relations, Library, and Visitor Lobby.
• Patient Care - Supporting healthcare professionals by visiting patients, transporting equipment, escorting patients from the rooms to and from hospital service areas, and ensuring patients' overall comfort.
• Retail Opportunities
  • Gift Shoppe - Staffing the Gift Shoppe for 2-2.5 hour shifts. Duties include re-stocking shelves, operating the cash register, and assisting patients and customers.
  • HELPP Lottery - Volunteers sell break-open tickets in the Admitting/Registration area.
• Community Volunteers - Working with any of the 5 Auxiliary community branches, assisting with fundraising initiatives and volunteer recruitment.

Responsibilities & Expectations of Volunteers at WDMH

As a volunteer at WDMH, the responsibilities include:

• Working in the area assigned for the period scheduled
• Finding an approved substitute if unable to attend or complete a shift
• Maintaining confidentiality of patient information, business operations and other confidential information related to your role
• Immediately reporting any accident you witness or are involved in immediately to the person responsible for your area
• Being knowledgeable of the hospital's disaster, emergency, and fire safety procedures
• Practicing proper hand-washing techniques after all patient contact
• Practicing patient safety techniques such as wheelchair operation and oxygen tank handling
• Wearing the volunteer smock and ID badge at all times when on duty

You will never be performing a task with which you are unfamiliar, unsure of, or uncomfortable with.

Application Process

It's as easy as:

• Completing an application form available from the Human Resource office
• Having an interview with Human Resources personnel
• Submitting a minimum of 2 references
• Signing a Confidentiality agreement
• Completing Orientation

Call Today at (613) 774-2422 x 5228 or email us at kchambers@wdmh.on.ca.