VA seeks volunteers to support Veterans during holiday season

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

POPLAR BLUFF, Mo., (KBSI) — The John J. Pershing VA Medical Center is seeking volunteers to support Veterans, particularly those living in the Community Living Center, as the holiday season approaches.

Volunteers play a vital role across the hospital, filling gaps where staff cannot and helping enhance the daily lives of Veterans. Dale Garrett, chief of the Center for Development and Civic Engagement, said the need is especially great this time of year.

“We’re reaching out for volunteers because a lot of Veterans during the holidays feel left alone or left behind,” Garrett said.

Volunteers in the Community Living Center often assist with activities such as bingo, one-on-one visits, conversations, and helping residents move around the facility to spend time outdoors. These simple interactions can significantly improve quality of life, Garrett said.

Ideal volunteers are those who enjoy conversation, are eager to help where needed and have a heart for service, he said.

In addition to individual volunteers, the VA is also encouraging groups to get involved. Church and school choirs, clubs, sports teams and other organizations are invited to offer activities or visits. Ideas such as ice cream socials and other social events are also welcomed.

Getting started as a volunteer requires only a brief orientation and minimal paperwork for occasional service. Those wishing to commit weekly or monthly will go through a more extensive application and orientation process.

“We can get them started and walk them every step of the process,” Garrett said. “Volunteers are considered non-compensated VA employees, so they receive a similar vetting process as employees, but it’s simple.”

Anyone interested in volunteering may contact the Center for Development and Civic Engagement at 573-778-4276 or email VHAPOPVoluntary-W@va.gov.