The National Rehabilitation Hospital Volunteer Program began in 1986 when a former group of patients and individuals from the community wanted to give back to the hospital that assisted them with "Adding life to years®.” NRH volunteers act as a complement to NRH team members. NRH volunteers are the hearts of the hospital. Volunteers serve the hospital wherever it is necessary.

There are many types of groups who participate in our volunteer program. NRH welcomes anyone who would like to become a NRH volunteer. Our volunteers come from many walks of life. Some are adolescents and some are retirees. Some volunteers even have disabilities.

NRH Volunteers take pride in their service to the Hospital community. Our volunteers truly make a difference through their daily interactions with team members and patients. Most NRH volunteers say they receive more than they give. That is why NRH's volunteers give and give.

Each April, NRH Volunteers are celebrated during Volunteer Recognition Month.  At a special luncheon when NRH Team Members serve lunch to the volunteers, a volunteer of the year is honored.  Volunteer of the year include: Edna Ballard, Willie Warren, Jeannette Beatty, Winifred Notes, Dolores Hemmerick, Janice Barrett, Michael Dietz, Norman Wilson, Elise Waller, Angela Jones, Helen Carter, Jane Muench and Jina Harmon.

The following is a description of the many types of groups who serve our hospital:

Community Volunteers
This group of volunteers includes current and former patients and greatful family members.  Provide administrative support both within the Hospital and in many outpatient centers.

Student Volunteers
These volunteers are mainly college students fulfilling their physical therapy and/or occupational therapy application requirements or persons who are interested in pursuing a career in the field.

Junior League of Washington, D.C.
These volunteers manage Wednesday-night bingo for patients and provide support for the Patient Education Center two nights a month. The Junior League also assists with the annual Gala Victory Awards® and host the Patient Holiday Party in December.

Front Desk Greeters
Former members of the Telphone Operators of America, this group of volunteers greets visitors and works with Security and Transportation teams at the Hospital.

Spiritual Care
These volunteers work with the Chaplin in the evenings and on Sundays. Each Monday there is a meeting for patients and family members from 6-7 p.m. On Sunday, a Catholic Mass is held at 10 a.m. followed by a Community Worship Service at 11 a.m. A chaplain is available around the clock.

Education Volunteers
The Dion Johnson Patient Education Center provides an excellent opportunity for volunteers to assist patients. The Patient Education Center has books and pamphlets as well as computers with Internet access to research and gain knowledge about conditions, medications and treatments.