Volunteer numbers more than VA expected

The Department of Veterans Affairs expected 100,000 volunteers to step up during the 2015 Summer of Service, and what it got was 300,000 — triple the expected number.

The goal of the Summer of Service was to bring community volunteers, veterans service organizations and local communities into partnership with VA centers to help 15,000 veterans and their families. The actual number reached topped 40,600.

Here are some ways volunteers helped:

• Transport veterans in for care

• Information desk

• Appointment reminder calls

• Lifeguard

• Work at National Cemeteries

• Parking lot shuttle driver

• Assist at Wheelchair Games and sports clinics

• Inventory scanner

• Staff welcome-home events

• Pharmacy technician

• Staff clothing rooms and gift shops

• Work at Stand Downs

• Assist at recreation programs

• Prepare dinner for patients and their families

• Outreach for homeless veterans.

Quite a variety of volunteer possibilities, and all of them very much needed.

If you're interested in volunteering, it doesn't have to be in the summer. Help is needed year-round. Here are a few things to know:

Depending on your role and proximity to veterans, you might need a health screening. Drivers require a full physical. You also might need a background check, but perhaps only a minimal one.

If you want to volunteer with hospital patients, go online to www.volunteer.va.gov or call the Voluntary Services Office at the closest VA medical center. (See www.volunteer.va.gov/directory) Check the FAQ at www.volunteer.va.gov/faqs.asp

If you'd like to help but would rather make a monetary donation, you can do that too. Your dollars will help to provide extras for the veterans.

© 2015 King Features Synd. Inc.