CAMP ARIFJAN, Kuwait – Volunteerism is one of the oldest social practices in America. Many believe it is the volunteer who holds communities together, because they assist in uplifting one' s educational and social building skills.
The United States Military Hospital-Kuwait and Camp Arifjan America Red Cross signed a partnership agreement, Aug. 31, at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait. The purpose of their partnership is to increase efficiency at USMH-Kuwait with volunteers, who gain essential job-related training and experience.
“This agreement between the USMH-K and Camp Arifjan American Red Cross gives service members the opportunity to not only give back to [their] community, but also the chance to gain valuable experience and insight into the medical field,” said Mark Hooper, regional director, Camp Arifjan American Red Cross.
“Volunteering is a rewarding experience. Benefits to [the individual] are possible promotion points, resume building, job experience and the knowledge you made a difference here,” Hooper added.
U.S. Army Maj. Tabatha E. Pepin, intensive care unit, clinical nurse officer in charge, 86th Combat Support Hospital agreed on the importance of the newly signed, and first of its kind, partnership program here.
“The memorandum of understanding establishes opportunities for Red Cross volunteers to receive job training and experience in a medical treatment facility,” said Pepin. “Some of the ancillary positions available are persons to answer general questions at the front desk; bringing morale packages to patients, and assisting healthcare team members with basic needs on the floor.”
Potential volunteer candidates must complete a background check and perform some supplemental training. CPR, automated external defibrillator, the health insurance portability and accountability act, infection controls and customer service are just some of the supplemental training.
“The reason I want to be a volunteer is because I want to make an impact on … nursing people back to health,” said U.S. Army Staff Sgt. William Mitchell, Army fire fighter, headquarters and headquarters company, Area Support Group-Kuwait. “I love the feeling of helping others, helping my community and making them stronger … and I feel that volunteering at the CSH here will help me do so.”