Summer program at Hendrick beneficial to local students and organization

Each summer, local students have the opportunity to participate in Hendrick Health’s Junior Volunteer Program. These volunteers are placed to work in various departments throughout the hospital, including Admissions, Central Supply, First Perk Coffee Cafe, Sterile Processing and the Gift Shop at Hendrick.

“This program is a great opportunity for both the students and our employees,” said Marsha Brigman, manager for volunteer services at Hendrick. “The students are exposed to many career opportunities, and they can accumulate credit for service project hours. The experience also encourages them to think about their future.”

Hendrick also reaps benefits from the program. Many departments find they need extra help during summer months when employees take their vacations.

“Our Junior Volunteers are more than happy to fill in with “extra pairs of hands” during the 10-week period they are with us,” said Brigman. “Job responsibilities can include giving directions, waiting on customers, delivering mail and escorting patients to and from appointments.”

But one job in particular is a favorite – the Snack Cart. Teams of two round the hospital offering employees and visitors water, sodas and other treats for purchase. The money raised from these sales is donated to Children’s Miracle Network each year.

By the Numbers:

72 Junior Volunteers participated

3,698 hours worked

147 hours – most worked by one individual

$27,735 – monetary value of hours worked @ minimum wage