Hospital volunteer work led to a job for Hamilton woman

A Hamilton woman found a pathway to her future career through volunteering at St. Joseph’s Healthcare.

This is National Volunteer Week (April 16 to 22) and Hamilton’s St. Joe’s highlighted the journey of one volunteer.

Huyam Abdelhalim knew she wanted to work in the medical field, she just wasn’t sure in which capacity.

After graduating from university, she volunteered at St. Joseph’s Healthcare, according to a press release from St. Joe’s.

“Volunteering was the perfect way to figure out exactly what I wanted to do,” Abdelhalim said. “St. Joe’s felt like a community to me and seemed like a great place to explore my interests in preparation for a job in the medical field.”

She started in the Emergency Department supporting patients by answering questions and helping to guide patients during their time in the busy department.

Abdelhalim’s volunteer experience also included time in Diagnostic Imaging, Endoscopy and the Mother Baby Unit.

With this hands-on experience on her resume, Abdelhalim soon gained employment at another local hospital.

And two years ago, she returned to St. Joe’s. Abdelhalim is now as manager of medical affairs at St. Joe’s, acting as the link between the hospital and physicians and residents.

“I would recommend anyone interested in healthcare to volunteer, ask questions and try to gain as many different experiences as possible,” Abdelhalim said.

The hospital offers prospective volunteers an opportunity to gain skills and experience.

“St. Joe’s offers a variety of volunteer roles to fit individual schedules, abilities and interests,” said Susan Zidaric-Seymour, director, Volunteer Resources. “There are so many ways to get involved with opportunities at our three campuses across Hamilton.”

Those interested in volunteering with St. Joe’s can visit http://www.joinstjoes.ca/volunteer-resources or email [email protected].