b'Our Amazing VolunteersThey arent paid for this, but theyre To see volunteer opportunities and fill out an application, scan the QR Code:Kristen Leonard, CTRS, Senior Patient Experience Specialist, tells us all we need to know about our incredible group of volunteers and what we can expect as the program continues to grow!Q: How many volunteers are currently part of the program? We currently have about 50 active volunteers. Anyone who is 16 years or older can apply to be a volunteer. We also have a Pet Therapy program with three dogs currently enrolled. We are always looking for more certified therapy animals to visit our patients!Q: What are some of the ways they help around the hospital? One of the most crucial roles they serve is acting as navigators. They assist patients and their loved ones in getting to all of the places they need to go. Additionally, they provide comfort by rounding and asking if they can bring coffee or other helpful things. We also have our Caregiver Coaches. They support family caregivers in our community, and they go out on the floors as well. And we are excited to welcome our ED Ambassador program back for the first time since early 2020! It will go year-round and use junior volunteers to be compassionate liaisons between those receiving care in our ED and medical staff, and their family and loved ones who are waiting. Q: How has the pandemic changed the volunteer program?The whole program is different now; overall, its been a good thing. We were able to take some time and figure out what was important to our volunteers. There are new opportunities to benefit patients, staff, and volunteers post-pandemic. We revamped many things and even created some new positions!Q: Are there any new or upcoming programs?Our Moose Races event, held on November 6th, supports a new initiative! The program will be focused on honoring and acknowledging patients admitted into the hospital who are veterans. We will provide them with additional resources, including post-discharge. 5'