The American Red Cross at Fort Sill kicks off its annual summer youth volunteer program at Reynolds Army Community Hospital (RACH). The program will run from June 1 through July 31, and registration ends May 17 at 4 p.m.
Students ages 14-17 who have access on post are eligible to sign up. Volunteer opportunities include administrative assistant, clinic assistant, library clerk, relay health liaison, specimen and patient transporter, greeter and wheelchair transporter, and the newly added ambulance assistant.
Upon completion of registration, students will be issued a volunteer access card.
"Students will be briefed on Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA) regulations and must comply with them at all times," said Endesha Williams, RACH Red Cross station chairwoman. "All their online application process and orientation can be done online from their home."
Certain programs at local schools, such as the honor society, require some community hours. Students who volunteer with the youth program at RACH will receive credit for those hours. Although, getting school credit is not a requirement to volunteer with the program, there are other advantages.
"Students have the opportunity to meet new people, build their resume, learn new skills and give back to the community while participating in the program," said Williams.
Consistent attendance throughout the eight weeks is strongly encouraged, but time out for family vacations or other reasons are expected. Williams hopes that some will continue to volunteer after the program ends.
"I remember a lady that volunteered for 40 years. She started off as a candy striper and just kept volunteering every year until she passed away," said Williams. "One of our former volunteers started here as a youth and went on to West Point. After graduation she returned to Fort Sill and again signed up as a volunteer, stating that she really enjoyed it and wanted to come back."
The program is not limited to the positions listed, if there is a need somewhere else or a volunteer asks for a position that does not yet exist, Red Cross members will create a position if it is justified.
"Last year, a volunteer wanted to be a nutritionist, so we created a position for her in that field," said Williams. "We also have positions in physical therapy for those interested in that line of work."
Collectively the Red Cross at RACH has more than 20 positions available to choose from.
The Red Cross Youth Program is looking for youths who want to make a difference in the Fort Sill community, join a long-standing tradition of selfless service and have fun at the same time. Register at http://tinurl.com/onuonac any time prior to May 17. For additional information call 580-558-2132.
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