Junior Volunteers Give 1,564 Hours

I remember being 13 years old, although I don’t remember it well. What I do remember is working as a house painter for my Dad in the miserably hot weather of a Central California summer. I learned some things, most importantly of which was I didn’t want to be a house painter when I grew up.

This week, I had the privilege of speaking to a large group of our Junior Volunteers. They were enthusiastic, smiling, laughing, and thankful for the opportunity to have learned what healthcare is like, thanks to the time they spent with us this summer. We had 49 Junior Volunteers who spent a total of 1,564 hours in a wide variety of departments. Everywhere from Surgery to Pioneer Manor. Where ever they went, they received the benefit of knowing what it’s like to spend time in a hospital or long-term care center, and see what all of us actually do. I am confident it turned their thoughts from sick people to compassionate care givers, thanks to all of you.

I first want to thank Lacey Grant for leading this important effort. Lacey has really focused our Junior Volunteer program on a quality experience for the kids involved and productive effort for those of us who had the pleasure of working with them. I also want to thank all of you who allowed them to be in your departments and see what you actually do. I am convinced through this program we will raise a up a few nurses, pharmacists, doctors, and maybe even a hospital administrator!

These truly were great kids, who had a great experience, and who saw health care in a new light. There is a lesson there for all of us: we should seek for a fresh insight into health care and the service we deliver. It is a privilege to work in an industry that helps people live better lives, cares for them in their moment of crisis, and assures our community we will always be there for them. By having a successful Junior Volunteer program, we are helping to ensure that tomorrow’s health care in Campbell County will be even better than it is today. Thanks Kids!

Andy