COVINGTON, Ga. – The Piedmont Newton Hospital Junior Volunteer program started this year’s summer session on June 5 and will run for seven weeks. The Junior Volunteer program is for rising 10th-, 11th- and 12th-grade students from Newton County, as well as the children and grandchildren of Piedmont Newton employees and volunteers. The 2018 summer class has 61 junior volunteers with 24 returning for a second or third year in the program.
“The Junior Volunteer program is a service to Piedmont Newton Hospital and provides an opportunity for students to gain exposure to a hospital environment while contributing to their community,” Andrea Lane, director of community relations at Piedmont Newton, said.
To participate in the program, students must commit to volunteering a minimum of 20 hours. New and returning junior volunteer applicants complete an application, submit letters of recommendation, and complete an interview before being entered into a lottery for selection. Upon acceptance to the program, volunteers must complete a mandatory orientation class, as well as any required medical screenings such as a tuberculosis screening.
In addition to working in various hospital departments, junior volunteers receive valuable training from hospital staff. Recently, Piedmont Newton EMS personnel provided first aid training, which included the appropriate process to deliver emergency medications, splinting breaks and sprains, and maintaining calm in emergency medical situations.
“Partnering with Piedmont Newton EMS to provide first aid training to our junior volunteers gives them skills that can be used to assist someone in the community,” Lane said.
Piedmont Newton started the Junior Volunteer program to give students in the community an opportunity to explore a career in healthcare.
“While volunteering with us, students may see themselves entering the healthcare field, or they may learn that it is not their calling,” Lane said. “It is good to have new experiences, learn what you are passionate about, and start making plans concerning your career path. In short, this is a growing experience.”
If you have questions about volunteer opportunities at Piedmont Newton Hospital, please contact the Community Relations Office at 770-385-7866.
