Since its founding in 1951 with 131 members, the Elkhart General Hospital Auxiliary has promoted and advanced the welfare of the hospital through the daily performance of various tasks and the coordination of major fundraising efforts. Today, more than 450 members contribute an average of 46,000 hours a year to the hospital and the patients it serves.

The Auxiliary adds an “extra dimension” to the Hospital’s caring atmosphere and has enhanced its technological capabilities by assisting in the purchase of state-of-the-art equipment. Their volunteer contribution has a positive impact on patients, family members, visitors, and hospital employees alike. The Auxiliary is considered an important partner in the Hospital’s patient care program and is a chartered organization that is governed by a constitution, bylaws, policies, and an elected executive board.

A Role for Everyone

Whether a “red coat” or a “pink lady,” serving as a surgery or patient hostess, gift shop cashier, event coordinator, information desk attendant, or deli cashier, there’s a volunteer role you can play at Elkhart General. Maybe you see yourself escorting a new mother and her infant to their car. Maybe you are especially gifted at bringing smiles to the faces of children. Maybe you’re an effective fund raiser who can plan events that support lifesaving equipment. Maybe you have the kindness it takes to comfort a family or patient in need. Whatever skills you bring, we have a role you can play that will help create a stronger hospital and a healthier community.

When do volunteers work?

Volunteers usually work once or twice a week for three or four hours at a time. They are needed seven days a week during the mornings, afternoons, and evenings. Substitutes are available to cover your assignment when you have personal or travel commitments.

How are volunteers trained?

All new volunteers go through an orientation to familiarize themselves with Elkhart General and the operation of the departments. When volunteers first assume their responsibilities, they work with others in the same position until they feel comfortable working by themselves.

EGH Auxiliary Appreciates Volunteers

In addition to the personal rewards and satisfaction volunteers receive through their work at the Hospital, the Auxiliary has a formal recognition program. At the annual meeting and luncheon, the Auxiliary honors and recognizes the volunteers who have achieved 5, 10, 15, 20, etc. years of service. Volunteers also receive complementary yearly flu shots and T.B. tests.

Some of the Volunteer Opportunities

Breast Care Center

Greet and assist patients.

Cardiac and Critical Care Center

Serve as a liaison between staff and families in the critical care waiting area.

Emergency Department

Assist staff with supplies and other needs.

Heart City

Help with filing of patient charts at Heart City Health Center located on Simpson Ave.

Cheery Corner Gift Shop

Assist with counter sales, inventory, and cashier duties. Help Gift Shop manager as needed.

Information Desk

Direct visitors to specific areas and serve as receptionist answering customer inquiries by phone as well as in person.

Junior Auxiliary

Special volunteer opportunities for students 14-18 years old. There are monthly meetings, CPR Training, and various areas of work in the Hospital. Must work six hours per month.

Office Pool

Assist various Hospital departments with office tasks, such as mailings, etc.

Patient Hostess

Assist patients with those “little extras.” Work on patient floors, pediatric department, and Michiana Hematology at RiverPointe.

Radiology

Assist patients getting ready for x-rays.

Transportation

Transport patients within the Hospital and assist staff when needed. Install Lifeline units.

Sewing

Sew and stuff animals for pediatric, radiology, and emergency unit patients. Sew heart shaped pillows for mastectomy patients and special pillows for the heart center patients.

Surgery Hostess

Serve as a liaison among surgery, recovery, doctors, and families in the surgery waiting area.

Dues and Types of Memberships

In order to begin your membership, a minimal contribution is necessary to help cover administrative expenses.

Active - $5.00/year ~ 36 hours of active volunteer work per year is required.

Associate - $2.00/year ~ Participate in fundraising activities outside of the hospital.

Sustaining - $10.00/year ~ No active participation is required.

Lifetime - $100 ~ Exempt from further dues.

Honorary - No dues ~ Limited to ten individuals recognized for outstanding service to the community.

Here’s how to find out if volunteering is for you

All prospective volunteers are required to take an orientation tour. You will visit various departments and receive descriptions of the volunteer responsibilities. If you are interested in becoming a member, you can sign up for an orientation tour at the information desk or call 574-523-3307.