Sunrise Health Region Volunteer Resources is hosting a Volunteer Recruitment Fair at Yorkton Regional Health Centre on Thursday, January 24 and Friday, January 25.
The Fair will be an opportunity for individuals who have been thinking of volunteering, but perhaps haven't made that initial contact or aren't sure where to start, to get more information and become registered as a volunteer. Volunteers and health care staff from various departments in the hospital, care home, primary health care, home care, health foundation and more will be available to answer questions and talk about volunteer opportunities.
The Sunrise Health Region Volunteer Services department currently is responsible for approximately 2,300 registered volunteers throughout the health region, about half of which are located in Yorkton. Sunrise Health Region volunteers receive complimentary parking while volunteering; current and potential volunteers attending the Fair will also receive complimentary parking.
"We are seeing a very different kind of volunteerism these days. People are retiring earlier, they want to be involved in something meaningful and are often interested in something short term," said Suzette Szumutku, Director of Volunteer Resources. "High schools and post-secondary education sites often require students to demonstrate their involvement in the community via volunteerism. Immigrants are looking to get involved and learn - perhaps improve their English language skills. And even those that work fulltime often really want to give something back to their community, but they have a limited time in which they can do that. Volunteers today want flexible hours, regular schedules, work that fills a real need and leaves a sense of satisfaction. They may be available on weekends, or evenings, or want to do something where they can come in every day. Health care, with our many needs, can offer those options."
While there are many available opportunities, Szumutku states that they are especially in need of host volunteers to assist clients who come into the hospital, volunteers to assist with delivery of Meals on Wheels, baby rockers, volunteers who can accompany residents from the care home to medical appointments and local volunteer drivers. The Health Foundation too is seeking volunteers for the Gift Shoppe at the hospital. In all cases, training and mentorship with a seasoned volunteer is provided.
For more information, stop in at the Yorkton Regional Health Centre on Thursday, January 24th from 6:30-7:30 p.m. or Friday, January 25th from 10:00-11:30 a.m. or 1:30-3:30 p.m. Door prize draws and coffee and snacks will be available. Those unable to attend can get more information by calling Volunteer Resources during regular office hours at 786-0468 or 786-0764.
