Inside Duke Medicine
Care ambassadors make a difference at Duke Raleigh
posted July 2nd, 2009
A Care Ambassador is a dedicated volunteer who is available to meet the service-related needs of any patient, family member or visitor.
“Volunteering here has changed my life,” said Jim Ward, Duke Raleigh care ambassador. “I was pretty much an introvert, but after I attended volunteer orientation that all changed. Rosemary Brown told us that when we walk through the halls at Duke Raleigh we should always greet and smile at everyone we meet. Those words changed my whole outlook – I actually take the time to notice people now, and I love my role here.”
Care Ambassadors are known for their encouraging words and uplifting gestures during these difficult times for patients and their loved ones. There are 40 Care Ambassador positions at Duke Raleigh Hospital.
Care Ambassadors volunteer in a variety of departments, including outpatient registration and admitting. The Care Ambassadors provide patients and visitors with an amenity kit that includes: pad and pencil, lip balm and several other care items. Each afternoon they deliver cookies to patients throughout the hospital. They also make sure that the admitting waiting area is stocked with coffee and fresh muffins for patients and visitors.
Each day Care Ambassadors visit patients to make sure they are comfortable and deliver newspapers. They also take the time to read to patients and visit with them throughout their hospital stay.
Care Ambassadors also play a special role in celebrating a patient’s birthday. They deliver a Duke Raleigh picture frame, and a card and balloon from the Guilded Lily to each patient celebrating a birthday on the day they are in the hospital. Many of the volunteers have been known to sing for the patients, which makes the delivery even more special.
Care Ambassadors can be reached at extension 4444 between the hours of 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.