Burgess volunteers play a significant role in setting the stage with exceptional customer service. They are the very first contact many patients have with the hospital. Burgess volunteers typically provide more than 6,000 hours of their time each year.
Volunteers escort patients and families, prepare scope packets, and provide many miscellaneous tasks, such as preparing mailings, folding brochures, etc. They also sort and deliver departmental and patient mail, as well as deliver juice to patients and visitors.
We are fortunate to have dedicated and enthusiastic volunteers. Burgess volunteers are warm and caring individuals who contribute their time and skills to make life better for our patients, visitors, staff, and community.
The extra care and services our volunteers provide contribute to the quality of care at Burgess. Since the opening of the original hospital during 1963, volunteers have contributed hundreds of thousands of hours of volunteer service. The care they provide is invaluable to patients and families.
Our volunteers also benefit from learning new skills, making new friends, and taking pleasure in knowing they are helping others. Research shows that people who volunteer often enjoy better health and a greater sense of well-being.
To become a volunteer, complete a membership form online or pick up a form at the Burgess Health Center information desk.
Information Desk and Surgery Greeter Desk: Volunteers staff the information desk in the hospital lobby and admissions area, where they assist patients visiting with special clinic physicians. Volunteers that staff the surgery waiting area assist families of surgery patients.
Gift Shop: Volunteers assist Burgess patients, family members, and employees in finding gifts, flowers, and other small items.
Cafeteria Cashier: The role of cashier in the cafeteria is filled by a volunteer during morning hours.
Hospice: Hospice is not a place, but a special kind of care. We have specially trained volunteers who go into patient homes, nursing homes, and the hospital to visit patients. They may run errands, help around the house, or provide relief for family members. Hospice volunteers are great support for the patient and the patient’s family.
Grounds Beautification (seasonal): Volunteers plant and maintain flower pots and help maintain the Healing Garden.
Blood Drive: Volunteers sit with donors to ensure they don’t show signs of a poor reaction after donating.
ACT II Consignment Shop: Volunteers sort donated items and attach price tags.
Volunteer Applications are available at the Burgess information desk. If you are interested in volunteering, please complete an application, return it to the Burgess Information desk, or mail it to Cheryl Warner, Volunteer Coordinator, Burgess Health Center, 1600 Diamond Street, Onawa, Iowa 51040. Cheryl will ensure your application is forwarded to the appropriate person.