RUMFORD – Rumford Hospital’s Youth Volunteer Program ran from July 12 to Aug. 20 this year.

Twelve youth, ages 13 to 18, volunteered in Medical Records, Swift River Health Care, Dr. William Kiley’s office, Food Service, Surgical Services, Central Supply, Physical Therapy, Radiology, Environmental Services, Human Resources and the Auxiliary Coffee Shop. Most of the volunteers were able to sample work in several departments. The program not only brings extra hands to jobs at the hospital, but it also helps recruit young people to health care careers.

“A lot of young people think that everyone who works in a hospital is either a doctor or a nurse,” said Priscilla Bickford, human resources, who organizes the program. “These volunteers have experienced lots of other career opportunities this summer.”

Many volunteers are the sons and daughters of hospital employees, but that is not a prerequisite for the program. “Each spring I ask every department if they want to host a youth volunteer,” said Bickford, “so employees are aware of the program and promote it to their children.”

On the last day of the program the volunteers were treated to lunch, gifts and certificates of appreciation for their hours. Several expressed an interest in continuing their volunteer jobs during school vacations and returning next summer.

“All the staff likes to have them here,” Bickford said. “They add a lively note to the hospital.”