VA Central Ohio Healthcare System

Celebrating 75 years of VA Voluntary Service today as part of National Volunteer Month, and encouraging safe ways to volunteer, donate and support our nations Veterans at VA facilities during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Columbus, OH — The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) celebrates 75 years of VA Voluntary Service today as part of National Volunteer Month, and encourages communities to find safe ways to volunteer, donate and support our nations Veterans at VA facilities during the COVID-19 pandemic.

 In 1946 the VA established the Department of Medicine and Surgery (DM&S), the organization that would later become the Veterans Health Administration. The Voluntary Service was one of the foundational programs created in the newly established DM&S, and it was charged with ensuring that its many volunteers were able to serve the needs of Veterans. 

 

“The VA Central Ohio Healthcare System is fortunate to have volunteers who so far this year have given 5,722 hours to serve our Veterans,” said Vivian T. Hutson, medical center director. “Our volunteers are a valued part of the Columbus VA and their dedication is so important to the success of our facility.”  

Adapting Voluntary Services to the realities of Covid-19 was challenging. The Columbus VA reintegrated volunteers back into the facility by providing training, PPE and supplies to sanitize workspaces and equipment, and they offered active and returning volunteers the Covid-19 vaccination.    

Soon, volunteers became a mainstay around the facility again. From wheelchair escorts to patient reminder calls, from to transportation to supporting the Covid-19 vaccine clinic, volunteers rose to the challenge welcoming and supporting Veterans at the Columbus VA.

The VA Central Ohio Healthcare System offers several ways to volunteer and support our Veteran community.

For more information about volunteer opportunities or  to sign up and volunteer, visit our website at https://www.columbus.va.gov/giving/index.asp.