By Ida Teoli

Council members have been very busy throughout the summer working on numerous important files and I would like to mention two in particular.
The first is the Volunteer Manual which has been updated and improved by the Training Committee. This new version of the manual was sent to all volunteers last month and it summarizes the roles and responsibilities of volunteers towards the organization and of the organization towards its volunteers. A number of changes may seem subtle but are extremely important for the organization to move forward and to ensure that volunteers meet the standards of knowledge and professionalism we expect of ourselves and that others (patients and health professionals alike) expect of us. I encourage you to take the time to read it carefully and if you have any questions, direct them to your staff supervisor.

The second is the Volunteer Recognition Brunch, which took place on October 6th and was organized with the help of the Recognition Committee. Much attention to detail and planning is required to stage such an event for the express purpose of recognizing the important contribution volunteers bring to Hope & Cope. By having a team of volunteers intimately involved in all aspects of the event, we hope that we struck the right chord and that volunteers feel appreciated.

Many more ideas and plans are on the table for 2020, including plans to celebrate our volunteers during National Volunteer Week, April 19-25. These can only happen if volunteers become more involved in the work the Council is doing. Please reach out to us if you have the time and inclination to work on a committee or submit your ideas at hopeandcopecommunique@jgh.mcgill.ca

Happy volunteering!