How to Become a Community Volunteer at Clinton Memorial Hospital
- Real Change Wilmington
- Apr 30
- 2 min read
“What’s important is [to] just let people know that they’re cared for, and they’re valued, and they’re not alone… My passion is to come alongside and just be there and meet their needs,” said Veronica Grabill, Chaplain and Volunteer Coordinator at Clinton Memorial Hospital, about her positions.
Veronica began as a Chaplain at Clinton Memorial. When their previous Volunteer Coordinator retired, Veronica took on the position of Volunteer Coordinator.
Volunteers at the hospital are able to work in each department. “Every department could probably use somebody,” Veronica stated. She mentioned that there are volunteers in the gift shop, medical records, front desk, financial services, emergency room, and more. According to Veronica, volunteers complete tasks such as counting supplies, putting bracelets on individuals in the emergency room, checking people in, helping in the mother and baby unit, and many other tasks. She also acknowledged that some volunteers read to patients, refresh water and blankets, or simply provide “a hand to hold.”
According to Veronica, volunteers range in age from 18 to 93. She stated, “There’s just something for every age group.” An ideal number of volunteers needed for the hospital ranges from 40 to 60 individuals. However, the hospital currently has under 30 volunteers.
When speaking of challenges in volunteer retention post-pandemic, Veronica mentioned that the elder volunteers were nervous to return to a hospital after the pandemic. To combat this challenge, Veronica has encouraged high school and college students to participate, as many need service hours for graduation requirements.
To become a volunteer, an individual must speak with Veronica to discuss which department interests them. They must also complete an application, background check, sign the Volunteer Pledge, and participate in training if necessary. Additionally, volunteers must complete a HIPAA packet and a media release form.
Listen to Veronica’s full story on episode #67 of the Real Change Wilmington podcast. Learn more about Clinton Memorial Hospital or become a volunteer at cmhregional.com/volunteers.
