Reasons to Help
Compassion + Action = Volunteer
Join us. You can make a difference in people’s lives.
"Do it for selfish reasons...because you are going to feel good about it." Dr. David Kosa, DDS.
Our volunteers began serving patients in 1989-90 and many are still with us today. The need is great, the generosity of our volunteers amazing, but we still need more of you to meet the growing need.
You can be part of this vital, rewarding, community effort.
There are many different perspectives on service and many different reasons people get involved. To learn more about why volunteers are needed, and why volunteers are the heart of the Free Clinic of Southwest Washington, keep reading.
Volunteer Spotlights - profiles of a few volunteers.
Volunteer Testimonials - volunteers in their own words.
Compassion In Action - on YouTube, our volunteer video PSA
Why Volunteers Are Still Needed
Patient numbers are skyrocketing
While health reform continues to make headlines, the number of unemployed and uninsured people continues to rise, and line of patients waiting for our clinics keeps getting longer.
New reform takes years & doesn't cover everyone
Even with new health care reform on the horizon, the outcomes are uncertain and final results are years away. Unfortunately, there will continue to be uninsured patients for years to come.
All services are provided by volunteers
We are an all-volunteer clinic. Compassionate health professionals and community members provide all medical, dental, vision, immunization, and specialty services as well as clerical services and administrative support. There are only a small number of permanent (paid) staff to provide administrative oversight and program management, thus the Free Clinic of Southwest Washington relies heavily on volunteer support. More volunteers will help share the load more equitably, and help to meet the increasing need.
Community in need
Our patients are uninsured, low-income members of our community, who would otherwise not receive any care. Most have jobs which do not provide benefits, but many new patients come here as a result of losing their job during this economic downturn. Without volunteers, the emergency department would be their only option.
In 2010, 650 volunteers contributed more than 25,000 hours to meet this increased need. Won't you join us?
Motivations and Benefits of Volunteering
Volunteer motivations are as varied as the people who experience them. There is no right or wrong reason to volunteer. Usually, there is a combination of factors which move volunteers to contribute to their community. The rewards can be simple, but always deeply satisfying.
Phil McGuiness, MD (physician volunteer)
Civic Responsibility
- Help Others / Serve the Community
- Health Care Shortage
Professional Development
- Gain Experience
- Alternative Clinical Experience
- Professional Networking
- Develop New Skills
- Resume Building
- Potential Reference
- Improve Leadership Skills
Educational Experience
-
Pre-med College Student - clinical Hours for students to support an application for
Medical | Dental | Nursing | Optometry | Pharmacy School - Medical Residency Requirements
- Internship or Externship Requirements
Benefits
- Patients Share their Gratitude - Daily and Vocally
- Rewarding Experience - volunteers finish each shift feeling good about themselves, their work, and their contribution.
- Find Friends with Shared Values
