New Mexico VA Health Care System - Volunteer Service

 Volunteer Programs:

• Guest Services includes Friday newspapers, comfort items, and bottled water
• Adopt-a-Holiday program furnishes tray covers and napkins for patients’ dinner trays on special holiday.
• Escort Program includes a day and evening shift
• Clothes Closet program furnishes clean, used clothing and new underwear to needy veterans
• DAV Transportation Network Program furnishes transportation for veterans from outlying areas to the medical center
• Summer Student Program provides opportunities for youth to learn more about medical careers
• Health and Occupations Careers Program provides underprivileged youth an opportunity to learn about jobs and careers and social interaction
• Mobile Coffee Cart Program provides free coffee to veterans and their families in the various waiting rooms throughout the hospital     
  
• Popcorn Program provides hot, fresh popcorn as a fund raising program for various volunteer activities
  

 Volunteer Opportunities:

Volunteer opportunities exist at the

• Information Desk
• Patient escorts
• Assisting in Pharmacy
• Prosthetics
• Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
• Chaplain Service
• As a visitor in the Friendly Visitor’s program.

Various other positions are available and can be discussed with Voluntary Service staff.

 Application Process:

Contact Voluntary Service (505) 256-2771 to obtain an application form. After filling out and returning the form, schedule an appointment for an interview with the Specialist. After the interview, prospective volunteers need to attend an orientation.

 Volunteer Benefits:

All volunteers that work four or more hours during weekdays may have a meal ticket to obtain a free lunch ($5.00 maximum). Free parking, identification badges, and jackets or vests are provided. Tuberculin testing, and flu vaccinations are provided annually. Volunteers are honored with awards ceremonies and special activities. Respect and admiration abound from serving those who served.
 

 How To Contact Us:

New Mexico Veterans Affairs Health Care System,
Voluntary Service,
Telephone (505) 256-2771,
or in person at 1501 San Pedro SE, Albuquerque, NM 87108, building one, room 105.