Volunteers bring kindness, comfort to the people we serve

Small details make a big difference

Together, these volunteers form a vital part of the hospital environment—often becoming one of the first friendly faces a patient or family member encounters.

Hospital volunteers support RIH in a wide variety of non-clinical roles designed to enhance the patient and family experience. Their work includes wayfinding assistance, escorting patients to appointments, greeting people in waiting areas, and offering emotional support in high‑stress areas such as the emergency department, intensive care unit, surgical services, and outpatient clinics.

Volunteers also provide comfort items and help with everyday tasks that make a meaningful difference, says Denton.

“Small details can make a big difference,” says Christy. “Let’s face it: most people don’t want to be at the hospital, and our volunteers can really brighten a patient’s day or ease a stressful moment for families navigating the healthcare system.”

Paving the way for the next generation of health-care workers

A unique strength of the RIH volunteer program is its youth volunteer stream. High school students support departments such as pediatrics, obstetrics, the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and select adult inpatient units.

Youth volunteers assist with tasks like refilling blanket warmers and linen carts, restocking supplies, and helping with seasonal decorating. They work closely alongside clerical and nursing staff, gaining firsthand exposure to healthcare environments while supporting the smooth operation of hospital units.

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For many students, the experience offers valuable insight into health-care careers while allowing them to contribute meaningfully to their community.

A culture of compassion

At its core, Christy says, the volunteer program is about human connection.

“Volunteers play a vital role in enhancing the patient and family experience,” she explains. “By offering kindness, conversation and reassurance, volunteers complement the work of health-care professionals and help create a welcoming, compassionate hospital environment during what can be some of life’s most stressful moments.”

RIH welcomes volunteers from all walks of life—students, working adults, retirees, and anyone with a genuine desire to give back. Ideal volunteers are caring, dependable, respectful, and comfortable working with diverse communities, with strong communication skills and a willingness to help.

Get involved at RIH

The program continues to welcome new volunteers.

“Like many volunteer programs, we are always glad to welcome new volunteers,” Christy shares. Demand fluctuates depending on hospital activity, making ongoing recruitment essential to maintaining consistent support for patients, families and staff.

The RIH Auxiliary is currently looking for additional volunteers to support fundraising efforts, including roles at the thrift store and gift shop—activities that help generate funding for hospital programs and equipment.

As the program continues to grow, one thing remains constant: volunteers are helping shape the culture of care at Royal Inland Hospital—one small act of kindness at a time.

Learn more about volunteering at RIH

Kindness can change someone’s day

Currently, CMH and Deni House are supported by close to 70 active volunteers, offering their time in a wide range of roles throughout the facility, Tanis explains. The volunteer team includes CMH Auxiliary members running the gift shop, spiritual care practitioners, musical volunteers, therapy dog teams, and individuals assisting in hospital departments and long‑term care.

Together, they contribute to creating a welcoming and compassionate environment for everyone who walks through the doors.  

According to Tanis, those efforts play an important role in enhancing the overall patient experience. 

“A volunteer’s kindness can truly change someone’s day,” she said. “Sometimes it’s about a conversation, sometimes it’s about being there quietly. Those moments matter, especially in health care.” 

Tanis has focused on growing and strengthening the program while ensuring volunteers feel valued and supported. Creating meaningful opportunities for community members to give back has been a key priority. 

“People volunteer because they want to help and to feel connected to their community,” she says. “Our role is to make sure they’re supported and that their contributions are making a real difference.” 

Get involved at CMH

While CMH has a strong and dedicated volunteer base, Tanis says the program is always open to welcoming more people. As the hospital continues to grow and evolve, more volunteers allow for expanded services and additional support for patients and residents. 

“We’re always grateful for new volunteers,” Rosa said. “There are many different ways to get involved, and every person brings something unique.” 

Rosa emphasizes that volunteers come from all backgrounds and age groups, and that diversity is one of the program’s strengths. 

Learn more about volunteering at CMH

Supporting students interested in health care

The program began in 2016 as the Interior Health Youth Program for Grade 11 and 12 students at the high school. Allana Ferro, president, BC Association of Healthcare Auxiliaries, was president of the Trail Hospital Auxiliary at the time. She says her goal was to support students interested in health care who needed volunteer hours for graduation.

“Having started as a candy striper myself in high school, I have always had a passion for health care and hoped to inspire these students to pursue similar careers,” shares Allana. “The program was extremely popular until it was paused in March 2020, and I am very excited to see it restart this year.”

The Student Volunteer program also provides valuable exposure to careers in health care in acute care and long-term care, locally, at Poplar Ridge.

“Environmental Services, Pharmacy, Social Work, acute inpatient and long-term care are just some of the departments that have enjoyed students shadowing to learn more about their work,” says Andrea. “Most importantly, these student volunteers are spending time with patients and residents and are a highlight of their days!”

Currently 23 students are involved, with an intake happening once per year.

Get involved in the Kootenays

Other volunteer opportunities in health care settings are available for people of all ages through the Trail Hospital Auxiliary Society.

You can also reach out to IH for volunteering in the broader Kootenay community. 

Learn more about volunteering in the Kootenays