Site MapBAMC Volunteers give back with time and service
Story by Maria Gallegos
Published May 4, 2012
Photo by Maria Gallegos
Photo 1
Joe Butcher, IMD volunteer greeter and information operator answers a phone call during his time at the Information Desk. IMD has 37
volunteers working as greeters throughout the four information desks located at the medical center. They receive approximately 2,000
phone calls and address numerous questions ranging from access to health care, directions and provide customer service to more than
1,000 customers daily.
Photo 2
Victor Hancock holds his 2011 Volunteer of the Year award certificate during the Department of Ministry volunteer recognition luncheon at
Fort Sam Houston Golf Club, his wife also pictured in the background. Hancock has dedicated his time and service since February 2006.
Congratulations Mr. Hancock!
Department of Ministry currently has more than 65 volunteers throughout the medical center to provide care and compassion to patients and
staff who need an extra attention.
Photo 3
Marchell Tillman, Patient Transport coordinator, and the Patient Transport team during their recognition luncheon at SAMMC. Also known
as the Runners in the old BAMC, there are a total of 18 volunteers in Patient Transport and the new Ambassador program. Last year, they
transported 4,000 patients throughout the hospital and started a new program called the Ambassadors this year. The Ambassadors will act
as a concierge for patients arriving at the medical center to welcome, assist, and escort them through the hospital.
Brooke Army Medical Center celebrated and recognized volunteers during National Volunteer Recognition Week April 16-20.
Many departments participated and hosted events and luncheons to show their appreciation for their volunteers.
BAMC has more than 480 assigned volunteers throughout the command and contributed to more than 77,000 hours in 2011. They have served approximately $1.7 million in volunteer time and service.
"The commitment and compassion they [volunteers] have in their hearts shows just how much they care with their selfless service to those around them," said Col. Sheri Howell, BAMC deputy commander for nursing during her remarks at the Information Management Department (IMD) volunteer recognition luncheon.
Volunteers are a combination of former active duty members and retirees, active duty and retiree family members, and members of the civilian community.
"Many of the volunteers are retired military and had been hospitalized for injuries or illness while on active duty, typically in a military hospital," said Jessica Veilleux, chief of Volunteer Services.
"Because of their background, they can relate to our injured soldiers or anxious family members seeking guidance with compassion and wisdom. They want to give back to those who also serve the country they love."
"BAMC/SAMMC has a long and special relation with its volunteers. We need them; they are a part of our fiber and contribute to the overall success of the healthcare mission," said Mike Dulevitz, BAMC volunteer services coordinator.
"Thanks to all who made the time to recognize the terrific efforts of our volunteers, who are an inspiration to us all," said Howell.
For more information about the volunteer program, please contact the Volunteer Services at 210.916.5388.