GRH looking to bring a bright and supportive experience to people
Posted Mar 12, 2022 05:30:00 PM.
The Grand River Hospital foundation has announced it is bringing back its Volunteer program, which was stopped due to the Omicron wave, but will start up again on March 21. A full rollout will happen in April for Volunteer week.
“We have completely a new look, new feeling, and new approach to volunteers volunteering in the hospital. Our long-term vision is to grow from 1,000 volunteers across Grand River's seven sites to over 5,000 in the next few years,” said Paul McIntyre Royston with Grand River Hospital Foundation.
The program will require volunteers to be on the computer or inside the hospital in a unit, or grounds keeping.
“It really brings a love of engagement and a caring nature to it all.”
Before the pandemic, GRH still charged visitors to use its Wi-Fi service. Now, they are providing free internet service and recently launched a program called Grand Serve. This service is free and accessible to high-speed Wi-Fi.
“You can watch Netflix, Prime video, even Disney Plus when you are there. We know that hospitals are stressful [to be in], and we want to make it so much easier.”
The foundation is partnering with Kitchener Public Library and other community organizations to launch a “Borrowing Program.” This program will allow those visiting the hospital who don't have an electronic device to borrow a Chromebook or tablet and use the Wi-Fi service.
“The long-term vision with that is we want to offer an in-room concierge. If you want a Tim Hortons to your room, we can have a volunteer bring it right up to you and provide you with that 'double-double.'”
McIntyre Royston added that the foundation and hospital “want that experience to be bright as it can and supportive as it can. We are excited for people to connect with their loved ones around the world as well.”
