Volunteer needs changing amid COVID-19 pandemic

Volunteers raising hands
Volunteering during a pandemic is not an everyday situation and requires careful consideration and placement.

In times of disaster or crisis, the strength and generosity of our faculty, staff and students at Augusta University and Augusta University Health System is always evident.

In the past couple of weeks, many members of our community have come together to fight the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and others have expressed interest in helping as well.

We greatly appreciate and admire this generosity of spirit. However, as we think about how to most effectively lend a hand during these challenging times, we must keep a few things in mind. 

First, social distancing is an essential part of slowing down the spread of the virus. Unlike our response during Hurricanes Dorian or Irma, there are clear personal health risks involved with COVID-19 because of its contagiousness that are typically not associated with providing aid after a natural disaster.

Second, there are a number of important legal, Board of Regents, Augusta University and Augusta University Health System policies that govern our volunteer activities, and we must continue to be mindful of our obligations under those policies. 

Our Office of Volunteer Services is leading our effort to coordinate all volunteer activities. Please contact them to find appropriate ways to lend a hand during this challenging time. They are prepared to use all of the time and talents of those who wish to help, and to do so in a safe and compliant manner.

Volunteer interest form

Augusta University-affiliated volunteers (students, faculty, staff) can indicate interest and availability to support the AU Medical Center COVID 19 Call Center Hotline as well as tent Emergency Department volunteer needs.

Volunteers will only be assigned to low risk/low exposure duties and will be provided with any relevant safety equipment that might be appropriate based on the role. Once we receive your form, you will be contacted directly to get your specific shift schedule confirmed. Fill out the form here.

Thank you for your support and commitment to this effort.

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Written by
Denise Parrish

Denise Parrish is Director of Communications for Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement at Augusta University. Contact her to schedule an interview on this topic at 706-721-9760 or mparrish@augusta.edu.

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Avatar photo Written by Denise Parrish

Jagwire is your source for news and stories from Augusta University. Daily updates highlight the many ways students, faculty, staff, researchers and clinicians "bring their A games" in classrooms and clinics on four campuses in Augusta and locations across the state of Georgia.

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