Espanola, ON — ERHHC CEO Martin Lees, former CEO Jane Batistelli, and retired RN Nancy Lacasse visited Espanola High School this morning to introduce a new volunteer program designed to connect students with meaningful opportunities inside the healthcare system.
The inaugural presentation was shared with the school's Student Parliament, a group of young leaders who will help bring the message back to the broader student body. While the program is open to all students, the hospital felt it was fitting to begin with those already demonstrating leadership and community involvement.
The new volunteer program offers students the opportunity to earn volunteer hours while gaining valuable experience in a healthcare environment. Participants will have the chance to learn about hospital operations beyond the bedside, developing a better understanding of the many roles that contribute to patient care and the delivery of local healthcare services.
Students will also have the opportunity to build their resumes, develop professional skills, obtain letters of reference, and gain experience that can support future employment, college, university, or healthcare career aspirations.
Volunteer opportunities may include wayfinding, patient and resident support, event coordination, and community engagement activities.
At its core, the program is about strengthening the health and well-being of our rural community. However, it is also an investment in the future. By engaging students early and creating opportunities for them to contribute, learn, and share their ideas, ERHHC hopes to inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals, volunteers, and community leaders.
Today's visit to Espanola High School marks only the first stop in the launch of this program. Over the coming months, ERHHC plans to engage community groups, organizations, and residents as it continues to build a sustainable volunteer program that supports patients, families, and staff across the entire care continuum.
By welcoming new voices and incorporating the ideas, perspectives, and energy of future healthcare leaders, ERHHC is creating a program that not only enhances the patient experience today but also helps shape the future of healthcare in our community.