Today is International Volunteer Day, an international observance mandated by the United Nations General Assembly in 1985. According to the UN’s official website, IVD “celebrates the theme of solidarity through volunteering. This campaign highlights the power of our collective humanity to drive positive change through volunteerism.”
“The Trinity Health System volunteers provide service to 28 different departments at our Trinity East, Trinity West, Trinity Twin City, Prime Time and St. Clairsville locations,” said Lori Jennings, Volunteer Coordinator, Volunteer Services, at Trinity Health System. “All of the departments benefit from our volunteers because of their commitment to the service of our ministry.”
Volunteers are a Major Economic Force in the U.S.
According to the United States Census Bureau, the economic value of volunteering is estimated to be $122.9 billion. Volunteers in the United States contribute 4.1 billion hours of service.
“Volunteers selflessly share their skills, talents, and time, which makes a lasting difference in any organization they choose to be of service,” Jennings said. “Our volunteers are driven by a desire to be of service to their community and to help others.”
Those who volunteer at Trinity Health System have a heart to serve, Jennings added. She noted their dedication to both the patients and employees. Because of the consistency of each departmental need, the volunteers commit themselves to also being available to the varying and changing needs of the ministry.
“Our volunteers seem to enjoy the delegation of their time by creating social contacts as well as keeping physically and mentally healthy,” Jennings said. “THS volunteers’ influence in the ministry is shared and reciprocated in relationships with our patients, visitors, and staff. Our volunteers take part in living out our core values of compassion, inclusion, integrity, excellence, and collaboration in their interactions with others and in the work they do.”
Trinity Health System presents a new program for volunteers
Trinity Health System recently unveiled a new program for volunteers called the Volunteer Ambassador Program. When the new tower at the Trinity West campus opens, these volunteers will assist with the needs of incoming patients and visitors.
“Volunteers will be a part of the patient satisfaction in helping to make everyone feel welcome,” Jennings said. “We understand that every person who decides to volunteer for THS has taken time out of their lives to give to their community. This is not something that is taken for granted.”
If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer, please visit the Trinity Health System
website, trinityhealth.com/volunteer, and submit an application or call 740-283-7220 and Lori Jennings will assist you with the application process.
“We are grateful for the kindness shown from those who give their time to volunteering,” Jennings said. “I’m reminded of Hebrews 13:16 – ‘But don’t forget to help others and to share your possessions with them. This, too, is like offering a sacrifice that pleases God.’”
