Hospital to implement youth volunteer program

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McLeod Health Clarendon is gearing up for its first Teenage Volunteer Program for the summer. It will give youth in the community the opportunity to work with healthcare professionals in designated areas of the hospital, said McLeod Health Clarendon Volunteer Coordinator Stacy Mosier. She said that the number of volunteers will be limited, so early sign-up is crucial for interested parties. “Throughout our lives we are asked what we want to do when we grow up,” said Mosier. “High school is a fantastic time to start thinking and working toward making goals happen. Teens will experience a variety of activities in a hospital setting, learning and gaining personal satisfaction and making new friends while serving others.” Mosier said that volunteering will be a “positive, life-changing experience.” “Therefore, I encourage teens that have a heart to serve to apply,” she said. The program is being offered for the summer to teens between the ages of 15 and 18. Applications must be completed and returned to the hospital no later than May 28. “Requirements are that all applicants must be between the ages of 15 and 18 with an overall B average in school,” Mosier said. Applicants must have parents’ consent and a letter of recommendation from school guidance counselors, a teacher or a pastor. “Applicants must also submit a one-page essay detailing the reasons why they want to volunteer,” Mosier said. Volunteer designated assignments will vary from answering phones, greeting guests and guiding patients or visitors to appropriate areas to filing or visiting with patients. After the application process, selected applicants will be invited to an interview at the health facility. This will be followed by an orientation. “If volunteers are considering a career in healthcare, a volunteer position will help them to get a feel for it,” said Mosier. “Some of the areas that youth are able to volunteer in at the medical facility will also involve delivering mail and flowers to patients. It is important for the volunteer to have a service heart and be able to develop a rapport with patients.”