Volunteer Opportunities
The Shop@VGH is run by a team of dedicated volunteers, and our proceeds are contributed to Vancouver Coastal Health’s patient services.
The volunteer team at The Shop@VGH includes include students looking to enter into the healthcare or business fields, experienced workers wanting to give of their time and service, and retirees who are eager to contribute their wisdom and knowledge. The diversity our of team is what makes the gift shop a success!
If you are interested in volunteering with Vancouver Coastal Health, please visit our Volunteer Resources page.
Here is what some of our volunteers have to say:
Melanie Hyde
After working at VGH for 32 years, it's a great feeling to give back to the community that supported me all those years. I love helping the folks that come into the store find just the right gift, snack, or personal item to make their day brighter. I have made so many new friends from the wonderful volunteers and staff, I look forward to my shift every week
Ted Pasek
Volunteering over time has become a normal part of my week and something I look forward to. I enjoy catching up & chatting with the familiar faces that I’ve built a repertoire with, while tending to the gift shop. One of the valuable things I’ve learned through my volunteership is the different stories each patient holds. I’ve also been able to learn different things from fellow volunteers who come from all walks of life. One of my favourite moments is helping patients & family members find something that would cheer them or their relatives up, and redrawing the shop sign to be congruent with the changing seasons is something I look forward to.
Hannah Choi
Throughout the last two years, I had such a memorable experience volunteering at the VGH gift shop. From delivering online orders to having conversations with the customers, I was glad that I was able to connect with others in the hospital. In fact, one of my favourite moments includes seeing patients filled with joy when I came for deliveries. I learned that my small, but impactful contributions can truly brighten up someone’s day. Furthermore, I was able to strengthen my communication skills by interacting with customers and other volunteers at the gift shop.
If you would like to explore opportunities at The Shop@VGH, or other opportunities with Vancouver Coastal Health, you can visit our Volunteer Resources page for more information.