April is Volunteer Appreciation Month—a time to celebrate the incredible impact volunteers have on communities everywhere. Across the country, hospitals depend on the generosity and dedication of volunteers to support staff and enhance the patient experience. If you’ve ever considered volunteering at South Arkansas Regional Hospital (SARH), now is the perfect time to get involved!
Making a Difference Where It’s Needed Most
Hospitals play a crucial role in their communities, especially in tight-knit places like ours, often serving as the only healthcare provider for miles. As local hospitals face unique challenges, volunteers can help bridge the gap by assisting with non-medical tasks that allow healthcare professionals to focus on patient care. From greeting visitors and delivering meals to providing companionship to patients, every volunteer role makes a difference.
A Rewarding Experience for You and Your Community
As much as volunteering is about giving time and talents, it is also about what you gain in return. Many volunteers say their experience is deeply fulfilling, offering opportunities to:
- Build New Connections & Nurture Existing Ones
- Gain New Skills
- Boost Your Mental & Physical Well-Being
- Support Your Local Healthcare Workers and Hospital
Volunteer Opportunities at SARH
Becoming a hospital volunteer is easier than you might think! Most hospitals have volunteer programs with flexible opportunities that fit your schedule and interests. Whether you can dedicate a few hours a week or just an occasional shift, your contribution is valued.
Here are a few of the ways you can help make a difference at SARH.
South Arkansas Regional Hospital Auxiliary
The mission of the SARH Auxiliary is to be the main source of volunteer support with many volunteer positions and projects that provide service and support to patients, visitor’s staff, and our community. Its members run the hospital’s gift shop and hold various fundraisers that benefit the hospital. If you enjoy event planning or working on community projects, this could be a great fit for you.
South Arkansas Regional Hospital Women’s Wellness Board
The Women’s Wellness Board was created to empower women as healthcare consumers and to engage them in dialogue about effective healthcare and life management choices for themselves and their families. This group promotes health and wellness for women in the community through educational programs and outreach events like the Healthy Heart Healthy You event held each February. To learn more, call (870) 864-3290.
South Arkansas Regional Hospital Advisory Board
The Advisory Board serves as a formal mechanism for involving patients, family, and staff as partners for policy and program decision-making in healthcare settings. Composed of patients, their families, and hospital staff, the Advisory Board will act as an advisory resource to the leadership and staff of SARH. Visit the SARH website to learn more about openings and calls for applications.
South Arkansas Regional Hospital Foundation
The SARH Foundation was created to provide ongoing financial support, partnerships, and resources to help SARH succeed in serving the community and region. Its mission is to raise funds to support South Arkansas Regional Hospital initiatives and purchase priority medical equipment to improve patient outcomes. If you enjoy fundraising, whether helping grow supporters or sharing words of “thanks,” the Foundation would be a great fit. Contact the SARH Foundation to learn more about available opportunities.
Community Groups
Volunteer-focused groups and organizations may also donate time and services periodically. For example, Dirt Friends Garden Group, volunteers to help keep our flower beds and grounds beautiful for all who visit our hospital. If you are part of an organization interested in sharing an expertise or passion with South Arkansas Regional Hospital, we’d love to hear from you.
Board of Directors
The South Arkansas Regional Hospital and Foundation are both governed by a board of directors featuring representatives within the hospital and community. Board members use their experience in business, healthcare, fundraising, and community service to help guide the hospital’s and foundation’s missions and strategies.
How to Get Involved
This Volunteer Appreciation Month, let’s recognize those who give their time to support local healthcare—and inspire others to join in. Together, we can make a lasting difference in the lives of our neighbors and the health of our community.
To learn more about volunteering at SARH, visit our website at sarhcare.org/volunteer/ or call (870) 863-2095.