January 2012
A Letter from the Volunteer Service Office
The cold weather is slowly creeping towards us now. We definitely have been spoiled with our very mild winter so far. Unfortunately, we know it can’t last forever and we will be shoveling the beautiful, white snowflakes soon. Please know that if the weather presents traveling problems for you, I want you to feel free to stay at home. It would be helpful if you contact the office (202-537-4485) and let us know you will not be here for your shift. Your safety is a priority and we appreciate the time you do give to our patients and their families.
Communication is most important for our service. Our newsletter gives us the opportunity to dialogue with you and to keep you informed about important information within Sibley and the Volunteer Department. I invite you to take a look at your newsletter and get involved with the content. Send in your articles or topics which you would like to see discussed. I also ask you to pick up a copy of the SIBLEY VANTAGE which is kept by the computer in the office. This will also help in keeping you updated on changes and highlights at Sibley.
I am happy to say that our own Cristina Richardson was highlighted in this month’s VANTAGE. Cristina has made over 300 pillows for our Heart Pillow Project and is a very dedicated volunteer on the Information Desk. Please look for the article and be amazed at how much she has accomplished for such a young woman. Congratulations, Cristina!
We have many activities coming up in the next few months. We have a new program for employees and volunteers called THE LANGUAGE OF CARING. These sessions are designed to lead our hospital teams beyond "Customer Service" to meet the challenge of creating the "Great Patient Experience." Dates and times are posted in the office. We encourage as many volunteers as possible to attend theses sessions. After all, we are most often the first contact for patients in the hospital and the last person to thank the patient for choosing Sibley. Please call me with any questions.
Marianne Monek
Director, Volunteer Service & Guest Relations
Click here to read the full newsletter with important announcements, dates and more.