2023-2024 National Hospital Ambassador Della Steege
It’s that special time of year and our veterans in hospitals and facilities require more companionship, compassion and gift giving assistance to bring joy to their hearts. Often separated from family, friends or even pets, our veterans feel isolated and alone during the holidays. Even though we do so much throughout the year, it’s this season that makes being a hospital volunteer extra special. Here are a couple examples I’d like to share.
Kelle Brewer-Brown
VFW Auxiliary Dept. of Kansas Hospital Chairman shares:
Gift delivery-
Volunteering to deliver gifts like cards, stuffed animals or flowers is a common volunteer option. Volunteers often deliver these items to people and short-term or long-term care, and they visit patients in multiple areas of the hospital. Volunteering as a gift delivery person helps bring cheer and boosts morale for patients.
Megan E Malpass,
VFW Auxiliary Dept. of Oregon, Hospital Chairman shares:
A big recognition to Albany Auxiliary 584, specifically Alyssa and Stephanie, who shopped for over 40 items to send to the White City Rehabilitation residents for Christmas presents to send back to their family members. Some will also be for the residents themselves. Their Vice President will be delivering them to the facility on Thursday. Thank you, Gay!
How to become a volunteer
Take a moment to talk to your Department President, he or she may have a need for a new VAVS Representative or Deputy at a Hospital near you. The President can expedite the certification through National Headquarters. For additional information, visit MALTA Member Resources., Hospital.
You can also contact your local Voluntary Services Chief and inquiry on positions they need assistance with within the facility.
We’re at the halfway point of our year and I’m getting new examples daily of the wonderful and creative ways our veterans and their families are cared for by the volunteers of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary. Please keep those reports, pictures and flyers coming!
You are all doing a GREAT service to our veterans in our VA medical centers, veterans’ homes, and all facilities who serve our veterans. Keep Banding Together for our veterans!
I hope you all have a wonderful holiday season and a happy new year!