Become a HELP Volunteer
Make a Difference – Become a HELP Volunteer
Volunteering is a win-win.
You’ll not only make a positive difference in someone else’s life, but you will benefit, too! If you are reliable, enjoy interacting with people, and have an interest helping others, then HELP is for you!
Requirements:
- 16 years or older
- Minimum of one 4-hour shift per week
- Commitment to 6 months of volunteering
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Training
- 4 hours of classroom education
- 16 hours of shadowing and training by Coordinator or experienced volunteer
- Physical and Speech Therapy training
Volunteer Testimonials… in Their Own Words
We are fortunate to have a dedicated group of HELP volunteers who contribute their time, energy and expertise to our program. Here’s what a few of our volunteers enjoy the most about their experience.
- “I enjoy the one-on-one communication between the patient and me. I like to converse about their history and life in general. What is most rewarding is to be able to help the patients in any way that I am able to and that in the long term it makes a difference in their care.”
- “Giving back, the simple comforts that a patient needs… a patient telling me thank you…bringing a smile to their face.”
- “Helping others, I can see and feel the appreciation of patients, maybe a smile, maybe being called an angel. This takes precedent over sadness that you see.”
- “Being part of this program really helps you think about what to expect when wanting to work or be in the hospital as a future career.”
Meet the HELP Coordinators
Dhyana Velez, BSN, RN, is the Geriatric Coordinator for the Elder Life Program. Through the program, elderly patients are assessed for health issues, including signs of confusion, change in behavior, or cognitive and functional decline during hospitalization. Elderly patients who meet HELP criteria are enrolled in the program.
Getting Started
If you’re interested in serving as a HELP volunteer, please contact 973-450-2631 or Dhyana.Velez@rwjbh.org for more information.
