Housecall

Columbus Community Hospital is more than a place where you and your loved ones receive exceptional healthcare. It's also a welcoming and rewarding space where you can volunteer or pursue a fulfilling career.
Here's a quick look at some of the many ways people contribute as volunteers or employee team members at CCH — and why you might want to join them.

Workplace feels like family, great benefits

CCH is like a small city, with many different career paths available, said Michelle Meyer, the hospital's human resources director. In addition to serving as physicians, nurses, therapists, laboratory techs and other clinical professionals, employees work in areas such as:

• Information technology.
• Finance.
• Environmental services.
• Food services.
• Facilities maintenance.

"It takes every single person to make this place run efficiently," Meyer said. "Everyone is valued and supported here."

Asked what stands out about working at CCH, Meyer pointed to the personal connections among staff, patients and the community.

"Because we're a community hospital, our employees care for their neighbors, friends and family members," she said. "That helps create a level of compassion and dedication you might not always see in larger hospitals."

You can start a new career at CCH, as well as develop professionally.

"Many of our employees build a long career here, supported by mentorship, education and a team that truly wants to see them be successful," Meyer said.

CCH also offers generous benefits, including health insurance options covering employees and their families, a retirement plan, and educational assistance that can help you continue training or advance your healthcare career.

CCH currently has 125 employees who have more than 20 years of service. Meyer herself has worked here for 39 years.

"In many ways, it feels less like a workplace and more like family," she said.

Volunteers provide crucial support

Volunteers fill a vital need at CCH, and the hospital depends on them daily. Among their many contributions, they free up patient care staff so they can focus on providing excellent care to patients.

"Volunteers really allow our staff to do what they do best," said Angie Ramaekers, the hospital's director of volunteer and guest services.

CCH offers 33 different adult volunteer positions and about a dozen teen volunteer opportunities. Volunteers serve in a variety of hospital departments, such as the hospital and Healthpark Medical Office Building information desks. They also assist in The Gift Shop, guide visitors, provide wayfinding assistance, support the surgery waiting area and much more.

As a volunteer, you'll serve at least twice a month. When you begin, you'll receive orientation; training; and an assignment tailored to your talents, interests and needs.

Volunteering may also boost your well-being. Studies have suggested it helps people maintain joy and purpose, stay active, and expand their social circles.

"A lot of friendships have started here because of volunteering," Ramaekers said.

Teen volunteer program

CCH's VolunTEEN program offers opportunities for students exploring careers. It provides hands-on service, resumé building and annual scholarship opportunities. Teen volunteers must be between 14 and 18 years old and current high school students. They must make a minimum of a one-year commitment to the program.

In addition to allowing teens to explore a healthcare career, volunteering builds soft skills that many employers look for on a resumé.

"We have a variety of options, and you can dip your toes in the water a little and get a good sense of the day-to-day operations at the hospital," said Lucas Wieser, a volunteer coordinator at the hospital.

Categories: Volunteer