Volunteer

"Sharing, Enhancing, Learning"

During the holidays, groups look to perform at nursing homes, elderly housing, etc.

However, there is always the need for volunteers at both of our locations: The Pines - Machias Campus and The Pines - Olean Campus. Our residents enjoy year-round volunteers; volunteers who make them feel special.

Volunteers need not have a "special talent". Volunteers do such things as read to the residents, help with Bingo, take residents on "walks", travel with the Activities Department on outings, polish a resident's fingernails, bake a special "treat" to be shared with several residents, play a musical instrument, sing to the residents, etc.

Adult Volunteers are 18 and older. Junior Volunteers are at least 15 years of age. Junior Volunteers require parental or guardian permission to volunteer.

To ensure the safety and physical well-being of our residents/patients, staff and volunteers, the New York State Health Code requires:

Tuberculosis skin test (PPD)
An annual health assessment form and PPD every year (we will do this at our facilities).

All volunteers will receive a general orientation to the facility, its procedures, safety precautions, etc. before starting their volunteer service.

Check out Frequently Asked Questions about volunteering here.

Internships

Often colleges and universities require, or suggest to their students, internships for various courses. The Pines Health Care Center are willing to work together with these students, colleges/universities and others to provide an atmosphere of learning while, at the same time, enhancing the quality of life for our residents.

Junior Volunteer Program

The Junior Volunteer Program is designed to give students, 15 and older, the opportunity to volunteer in our long-term care environment as part of a team committed to exceptional resident care.

The program goals are to:

Enhance the quality of life for our residents through assisting residetns in leisure activities of daily living.
To provide a learning environment for students who are interested in a career in health care or in volunteering their time to their community.
To emphasize the value of intergenerational contact and communication.
Summer Program--July & August

Our Junior Volunteer Program is available the rest of the year. A minimum of 20 hours is required. Most schools require volunteer service for health and government classes. There are many areas where you can volunteer and meet your school requirements. Evening and weekends are available in Activities Department for those volunteers who have school commitments that prevent volunteering during the day. Volunteers serve as friendly visitors, assisting with arts/crafts, reminiscent groups, etc.

All volunteers go through a general orientation before starting an assignment. Each volunteer will receive an evaluation. In recognition of their service, a certificate will be given and a letter of recommendation sent to their school for placement in the student's academic file.

Consider spending a few hours making our residents' time more pleasant.