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Volunteer Week: Giving Back to Those Who Gave

John Istle, CDCE Red Coat Ambassador Program Volunteer, who surpassed5,000 hours of voluntary service with the VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System.
John Istle, CDCE Red Coat Ambassador Program Volunteer, who surpassed5,000 hours of voluntary service with the VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System.

By John Archiquette, Public Affairs Specialist

Every year, National Volunteer Week celebrates the men and women who selflessly dedicate their time and efforts to making our healthcare system better for our Veterans.

Every year, National Volunteer Week celebrates the men and women who selflessly dedicate their time and efforts to making our healthcare system better for our Veterans. At the VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System (VASNHS), that truth is on full display every day.

“Volunteers are priceless. They support our VA by bringing hope, optimism, and energy to our veterans through their selfless service,” said Robert Johnson, Chief of the VASNHS Center for Development and Civic Engagement (CDCE) service. “They are a reminder of how purpose and passion can come together to create a world of impact for those we proudly serve.”

From April 19-26, VASNHS proudly celebrates National Volunteer Week by recognizing the volunteers who donate their time, energy, and compassion to support our nation’s Veterans. From greeting patients at the front desk to leading recreational programs and providing peer support, VASNHS volunteers show up in every corner of our facility. It makes a difference that can’t be measured in hours alone.

Volunteers at VASNHS come from all walks of life: retirees, fellow Veterans, and community members who simply want to serve. What unites them is a shared belief that the men and women who sacrificed for this country deserve nothing less than our best.

One Veteran that has made a huge difference in his time as a VASNHS Volunteer is John Istle. He currently serves as a Lead Volunteer for the Red Coat Ambassador Program, surpassing 5,000 hours of voluntary service. Mr. Istle has been a volunteer with VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System since 2013 serving in several roles including shuttle cart driver, Whole Health, Fisher House, and VA Voluntary Service Committee member.  “He continues to help our VA in many ways,” said Johnson. “Most importantly, he remains an amazing advocate for Veterans and our VA’s efforts to become a more mature High Reliability Organization.”

During Volunteer Week, staff and leadership will take time to formally recognize these dedicated individuals, celebrating the relationships they’ve built with patients and the warmth they bring to an environment that can sometimes feel clinical and overwhelming. For many Veterans, a familiar volunteer face is the highlight of their visit.

If you feel called to give back, VASNHS welcomes new volunteers year-round. Whether you have an hour a week or a full day to spare, your time is a gift that our veteran community will feel deeply. 

How to Volunteer

If you are interested in volunteering at VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System, please contact Center for Development and Civic Engagement: 702-791-9134 to obtain a current list of volunteer assignments.  Prospective volunteers must complete a volunteer application and will be scheduled for an interview with a CDCE Specialist.

Volunteer Requirements:

  • Be at least 18 years of age
  • Be fingerprinted and cleared through background check by Human Resources
  • Be cleared medically through Occupational Health by completing a TB Test
  • Attend new volunteer orientation which also includes privacy and information security training
  • May receive service-specific training based on the assignment
  • DAV Drivers must also pass a physical and safe driver training