Sinai Health System has more than 1,200 volunteers who support patients, families and employees across our System in many different roles and capacities. Volunteers are essential to delivering an exceptional patient care experience. We’re fortunate to have so many dedicated, enthusiastic and talented volunteers who choose to be part of our team every day.
Thank you to all of our volunteers for giving your time, your energy and your experience to Sinai Health System!
In celebration of National Volunteer Week, April 8 to 12, we asked some of our volunteers and employees to share what volunteering at Sinai Health System means to them.
Gaining practical experience
“Volunteering at Bridgepoint has allowed me to gain practical experience alongside my Therapeutic Recreation studies while making an impact on the daily lives of patients. It has provided me with the opportunity to create real connections with patients and play a part in their journeys.”
—Jessica, MAUVE Volunteer, Bridgepoint Transitional Care Unit (Pictured, right)
“Having a MAUVE volunteer on our unit provides companionship for our patients as well as feeding assistance and support to freely move around or off the unit with our volunteers. Having the volunteers engage with our patients supports the nursing team so they can provide care for other patients on their assignment.”
—Maureen Matheson, Communicative Disorders Assistant, Bridgepoint (Pictured, left)
Meeting new people
“I volunteered at Mount Sinai Hospital because I wanted to be in an environment where I can meet new people, face different challenges, and gain work experience. I’ve been helping patients in need, assisting inspections, and participating fire drills and fire extinguisher training. I would recommend other people to work at Mount Sinai Hospital.”
-Dylan, Volunteer, Security, Mount Sinai Hospital
“Over the past 10 years we’ve been fortunate to have volunteers and co-op students working with Security. Their impact has been immense as they assist us with everything from wayfinding, visitor management, to finding wheelchairs and providing escorts. Their presence has freed up uniformed officers to respond much faster to a variety of facility emergencies, ultimately helping protect the hospital and all its occupants.”
—Mark McCormick, Security Manager and Fire Marshal, Sinai Health System (Pictured above, centre)
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A win-win for everyone involved
“I see myself as one who can offer some calm, empathy and insight to patients and their families that may be in a complex or confusing situation.”
—Paul, MAUVE Volunteer, Mount Sinai Emergency Department
“The Emergency Department focuses on prevention of falls, pressure injuries, and delirium in older adult patients. The MAUVE+ volunteers have been integral to this goal- they are trained to engage through meaningful activities and conversation. The volunteers are chosen for their leadership and initiative, which works well in the fast-paced world of an Emergency Department. The Emergency Department team have only positive things to say about this initiative. It is a win-win situation for everyone involved.”
—Stephanie Saraga Clinical Nurse Specialist, Mount Sinai Emergency Department
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Giving back
“I volunteer because I enjoy giving back where I can. I often feel like I live such a lucky, happy life and I know that not everyone is given the same chances and opportunities that I have been. I feel that all communities, whether global or village-sized, are only as strong as their weakest members so the lucky ones who have had the support and opportunities need to share them whenever possible.”
—Stevi, Pet Visiting Volunteer, Bridgepoint Ambulatory Care
“Pet visiting is the most wonderful, magical form of therapy. Seeing our therapy dogs each week provides both the patients and staff an opportunity to pause and take a moment to feel the warmth and love that the dogs bring.”
—Kimberley Meighan Case Manager, Bridgepoint Ambulatory Care
Making a difference
“There was a moment during a visit to the emergency department, holding Mary’s hand, she introduced me to one of the nurses as her ‘friend’ (as opposed to ‘volunteer’). It was then that it really felt true that I had made a difference.”
—Sarah Henriques, Friendly Visiting Volunteer,
Circle of Care