Volunteers needed at Ponoka Hospital and Care Centre

PONOKA – Alberta Health Services (AHS) is seeking residents interested in making a difference in the lives of patients and their families by volunteering for a number of opportunities at Ponoka Hospital and Care Centre.

Volunteers come from diverse backgrounds with a common purpose: to give back to their communities and make a positive impact on the lives and healthcare experiences of patients, residents, clients and their families. Every day across Alberta, dedicated volunteers are engaged in meaningful activities and roles that enhance the patient experience, bringing joy and comfort to those receiving care at our sites.

There are various opportunities to volunteer at Ponoka Hospital and Care Centre, with applications now being accepted for the following positions:

• Pet Visitation program needs furry volunteers (and their human masters) to visit with seniors. Pets can promote healing, reduce stress and assist in making meaningful connections with clients. Dogs must be certified and are required to go through an assessment process to ensure patient safety and that the pets are a good fit.
• Volunteer Visitation program seeks people who can provide companionship to clients as they chat, play games and take part in activities. These visits not only help seniors to feel less lonely but have been shown to speed the recovery process.
• Entertainment program needs musicians, singers, dancers, and others to share their gifts and provide sensory stimulation and brighten the lives of seniors.
• Crafts program needs creative people to assist with different group activities and offer support and compassion to residents and patients.
• Bingo program is looking for an adult or youth to assist on Wednesday afternoons.
• The Baking program needs people who enjoy cooking and baking to help on Monday mornings in long term care.
• Mealtime assistants are needed to help patients eat and enjoy their meals. Support is offered in many ways, including feeding, opening packages and cutting food.

Those interested will learn new skills while becoming part of the healthcare team. Training and mentorship are provided.

To apply for a volunteer position, please visit ahs.ca/info/page10421.aspx or contact Volunteer Resources co-ordinator Leanne Brusegard at leanne.brusegard@ahs.ca.

Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority responsible for planning and delivering health supports and services for more than four million adults and children living in Alberta. Its mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans.