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Volunteers provide important physical and emotional support to our residents. Their committed gift of time and dedication is vital to Project Lazarus' daily activity. While residents rely on volunteers for companionship and assistance with daily tasks, there are also opportunities in administrative support, gardening, and fund raising-among other things. Before volunteering, individuals are asked to make an appointment with our Volunteer Coordinator as well as fill out a very general application. This interview serves several purposes for both the volunteer and Project Lazarus. It helps answer any questions the prospective volunteer might have about Project Lazarus or their volunteer experience. It also is a chance for the volunteer to learn what is expected from them during their time spent at Project Lazarus. A schedule and list of objectives can be discussed and completed at this time. This interview usually takes no more than one hour, part of which includes a tour of Project Lazarus. Volunteers perform a wide range of functions at Project Lazarus. Household tasks include cleaning, administrative support, transportation and accompaniment to residents' appointments, and gardening. Most of all, volunteers provide companionship to residents who need a smile, conversation, or a hug. It is a reciprocal relationship where volunteers receive love and friendship from the residents in return. Volunteers with particular gifts are asked to assist with hospital visitation and vigil-bedside companionship during the last days and hours of a resident's life. Their gifts of time and love add to the quality of life of our residents in the day-to-day operations. Volunteers provide personal ties between themselves and residents that may not exist with family members or paid staff. Special talents that volunteers might posses, such as playing an instrument, artistic talents, or game playing can be implemented into a regularly scheduled group or activity for residents to participate in. Nighttime and weekend volunteers can provide motivation to our residents with companionship during normally quiet hours. Volunteers are also invited and encouraged to participate throughout the year in parties and get-togethers put on by Project Lazarus for various reasons. Volunteering for Project Lazarus' full schedule of fundraisers (Annual Dinner, Bon Appétit with Project Lazarus, Halloween) throughout the year is also a great way to meet the staff and other volunteers. Please note that although the location of Project Lazarus is confidential, it is in proximity to New Orleans' French Quarter. To volunteer or get volunteer information, please contact Shawn Winn at (504) 949-3609 or email him here. |