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A New Era of Hospital Volunteerism in Kansas City
The COVID-19 pandemic has irrevocably altered the landscape of hospital volunteering across the globe, and Kansas City is no exception. As hospitals sent volunteers home in March 2020, many wondered what the future held for these essential community members. Fast forward over five years, and we see a diverse transformation rather than a return to ‘normal.’
Shifting Dynamics of Volunteer Roles
Initially, many volunteers were hesitant to return. Nicki Johnson, the director of philanthropic volunteer services at Children’s Mercy, revealed that their program faced a hiatus of nearly nine months. As they reintroduced volunteers, it wasn't without its struggles. Issues such as new immunization requirements and the lasting impacts of isolation led some retirees to forgo their roles altogether. Others found the new healthcare landscape daunting or simply changed their living circumstances.
The Individual Stories Behind the Numbers
At University Health, Valinda Fisher-Hobson described how eager volunteers reached out during the shutdown, expressing their desire to return. However, the new realities of the workplace, such as wearing masks, deterred some. A mixed bag of enthusiasm and reluctance defined this transitional phase, emphasizing how personal connections and circumstances influenced volunteerism differently for each individual.
Innovative Volunteer Opportunities Emerge
The rebuilding phase saw a fresh perspective on how volunteers could contribute. Children’s Mercy harnessed technology, creating virtual activities like bingo and storytimes, adapting to the needs of the moment. Meanwhile, hands-on experiences evolved into ‘happy kits,’ assembled by volunteers to minimize germ exposure. Such innovations exemplify how hospitals have turned challenges into opportunities, enhancing the volunteer experience.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Healthcare Professionals
As Johnson noted, the children affected by the pandemic developed a newfound curiosity about healthcare careers. This shift is evident in programs like the summer health-care camp at University Health, intended for high school students to explore healthcare pathways. By engaging the youth, hospitals not only expand their workforce but also ignite a passion for health and wellness within the community.
Community Engagement Beyond the Hospital Walls
In a move toward strengthening community ties, hospitals in Kansas City are reevaluating how they engage with their local residents. For instance, University Health plans to introduce miniature horses for pet therapy, an initiative that symbolizes the creative approaches hospitals are now taking post-pandemic. Johnson emphasizes a commitment to immersing community members in the hospital's ethos, hoping that this allows more volunteers to truly connect with Children’s Mercy and want to stay involved.
The Voice of Change: Volunteers’ Perspectives
While digital platforms have enabled some aspects of volunteering during restrictions, they are not a perfect substitute for in-person interactions. Volunteers reported a feeling of disconnect during the pandemic, which has continued to impact their sense of belonging. Organizations are striving to remedy this by reintegrating traditional face-to-face events alongside digital communications, ensuring a blend that caters to varying comfort levels.
Looking Ahead: Volunteering’s Bright Future
As Kansas City's hospitals adapt to the unique challenges posed by the pandemic, they are shaping a sustainable model for volunteerism that reflects community needs. The ongoing commitment to innovation and engagement signifies a potential renaissance for hospital volunteer programs, promising that every volunteer has a valued place in local healthcare.
Have a story to share or want to contact us for more details? Drop us an email at team@kansascitythrive.com.
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