The Phelps Health Auxiliary and Volunteer Services Department hosts the VolunTEEN program each summer for area teenagers ages 14 to 18. Teens from several area school districts including Bland, Cuba, Dixon, Newburg, Rolla, Salem, St. James, Vienna and Waynesville participate in the program and learn more about helping other people, healthcare careers and workforce development.
What VolunTEENs Do
VolunTEENs are assigned to several different areas throughout the hospital. These areas include information and wayfinding desks at the Main Entrance, North Entrance and Medical Office Building. VolunTEENs also may assist with the hospitality cart and clerical projects as requested.
VolunTEENs Learn About Healthcare Careers
Many departments at Phelps Health provide tours and presentations for the VolunTEENs to further acquaint them with the hospital’s daily operations and services. The following Phelps Health departments have previously offered presentations: Emergency Department, Home Health, Occupational Health, Surgery, Volunteer Services (Retail Marketing), Respiratory Services, Laboratory and more.
Why You Should Become a VolunTEEN
There are many reasons you might choose to become a VolunTEEN this summer. Volunteering is a lot of fun. Many of your friends may have been a VolunTEEN in the past. This program also is a good way to meet new teens from other schools. Being a VolunTEEN also looks impressive on college, scholarship, National Honor Society (NHS) and job applications. Two- to 3-hour shifts per week are required. The program concludes with an appreciation and awards event planned by the VolunTEENs.
