Why Volunteer at Adventist Medical Center

In addition to having an opportunity to help others, volunteers say they enjoy the opportunity to make new friends, put their skills to work, learn new skills, answer a need, stay young at heart, put caring into action, inspire others, tackle new challenges, be a part of a team, teach others, promote a project and perform tasks that are appreciated.

Most of us find that we are also cared for, nurtured and befriended by the cadre of volunteers, hospital staff and even the patients. Our compensation is appreciation and friendship. Volunteering on a weekly basis reminds us that we have a place where we belong and consistently have a chance to do something meaningful.

The almost 400 volunteers have received training that helps them find positions where they enjoy the activities, feel comfortable, all within a time schedule that is flexible enough to meet their needs. We profit from the flexible scheduling. Some work when needed to complete a special project, while others work regularly as little as four hours a week up to as many hours a week as desired. There is even flexibility in activities. Some of us do the same activity each time and others participate in several activities during their service times.

Because of its easy to reach location on the east side near I-205 and the 205 Mall, we arrive in many different ways. On a typical day some of us catch rides with friends or family or with Tri-Met. Adventist Medical Center offers a discount to employees and volunteers on Tri-met monthly bus passes purchased through the gift shop. Others drive their own car or ride their bike. Parking is free. Some enjoy the exercise of walking to the hospital.

The social component of volunteering is a serendipity. You see tables of us eating our meal together sharing past experience and today�s events. Young and old chattering together as we eat. We represent many cultures and careers so there is much to talk about as we share with old friends and make new ones.