Volunteer or Donate
Veterans Affairs Voluntary Service (VAVS) supports programs at all VA medical centers and community based outpatient clinics throughout VISN 8's facilities in Florida, South Georgia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Opportunities
Volunteer opportunities are available working with patients as well as administrative and support areas. Assignments are made based on experience, skills, abilities, and goals of the volunteer. Traditional volunteer roles include:
- Escort Service
- Assistance on the wards
- Hosting an information desk
- Helping with rehabilitation activities
- Volunteer patient representative
- Patient computer lab instructor
- Parking lot shuttle driver
Special Events
Volunteers conduct many special events including holiday festivities, outings, and social and recreational activities to meet patient leisure and recreational needs. Programs include:
- Comfort Items
- Program Greeters/Ambassador Program
- Book Carts, Coffee Carts
- Feeding Program
- Visitation Program
- Volunteer Transportation Network-a collaboration between VA and the Disabled American Veterans
Donations play a major role for VAVS. Support patients by providing:
- Postage stamps and writing materials
- Craft materials
- Prepaid phone cards
- Emergency funds for patients
A variety of equipment is also provided, including televisions, radios, stereos, electric razors, hair dryers and computers. Larger scale projects include donations for wheelchair buses for recreation trips, vans for the Volunteer Transportation Network, phone and television systems
Benefits of Volunteering
- Honor America's heroes
- Learn new skills
- Build confidence
- Improve your health
- Meet new people
Volunteer at a location near you:
James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital – Tampa, FL
Bay Pines VA Healthcare System – St. Petersburg, FL
West Palm Beach VA Medical Center – West Palm Beach, FL
Miami VA Healthcare System – Miami, FL
North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System –Lake City & Gainesville, FL
Orlando VA Medical Center – Orlando, FL
VA Caribbean Healthcare System – San Juan, PR
