“We’ve really had some good success,” she said. “We’ve had students from, I think, most of the high schools here in Prince Albert have been represented either this year or last year or the year before, which is nice to see.” 

Senga said part of the appeal is that students can earn a Grade 12 credit through the Ministry of Education by completing 100 volunteer hours between Grades 10 and 12. She said the program also gives young people a chance to see whether health care is a good fit for them. 

“There’s kids who are interested in health care but don’t really know for sure if that’s the right thing for them,” she said. “So this is an opportunity to kind of see what health care is all about, get a little taste, and figure out whether that’s the right thing for them or not.” 

Students volunteer for two hours once a week from November to May, with about 20 youths taking part each day from Monday through Thursday, Senga said. She said the program is designed to rotate students through different activities and visiting opportunities. 

According to Senga, the experience can help participants build leadership, empathy and communication skills while pushing them beyond their comfort zones. She said many students also speak about the impact of simple acts of kindness and the friendships they build with peers from other schools. 

“A lot of them comment that they’ve gained some empathy toward other people,” she said. “Many of them decide to go into health care, which is pretty awesome, as obviously that’s a real side benefit of the program because we always need more health-care workers.” 

Senga said volunteers have formed meaningful connections with residents, including through regular games and visits, though organizers also encourage students to interact with a variety of people so they can experience the full scope of the program. 

The program also recognized student achievement this year by awarding eight bursaries. Senga said four $500 Hannah and Hudson bursaries were funded by a private donor in honour of her grandchildren, while four more bursaries were supported through money donated by the former Victoria Hospital Auxiliaries.

Looking ahead, Senga said the health authority will also need more volunteers when the new Victoria Hospital expansion space opens, particularly “way finders” who can help patients and visitors navigate the building. 

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susan.mcneil@pattisonmedia.com