Community outreach comes in different forms; however, the basic intent is founded in the desire to make a difference in someone else’s life. Here at Mount Sinai Beth Israel, we have a shining example of what this looks like in our community. Did you know we have a robust volunteer program for students interested in careers in health care?
Four years ago, Dinah Jacobson, Manager of our Volunteer Office, brought the concept of a student volunteer program to the neighboring High School for Health Professions and Human Services. After an enthusiastic reception and with the help of Amanda Anderson, RN, who was a member of the MSBI nursing team, MSBI initiated the program. By linking the traditional school curriculum with a health care related work experience, the program allows students to discover and explore a variety of career paths. It empowers students to visualize college and career pathways that they may not have previously been aware of.
Working closely with Assistant Principal Donna LoPiccolo and Medical Instructor Bruce Levinson, MD, Dinah thoughtfully places students with mentors based on their interests and career aspirations. A thorough process orients the students to the hospital as well as to their assigned departments and tasks, which can encompass experiences ranging from administration to education and direct patient contact. Most students remain with their mentors for two years, and in some cases, the experience has continued after the completion of their formal internship. Students love the program because it gives them an opportunity to network as well as build long term meaningful relationships with their mentors and others with whom they have worked.
Click below to see more photos of our volunteers.
Dinah says, “This program opens the eyes of our younger community to opportunities which may have otherwise have remained unknown or seemed unattainable. It is incredibly gratifying to observe these bright, highly-motivated young people as they continue to refine their professional goals.”
Dinah passionately states that conducting this program has been one of her most deeply fulfilling professional experiences. She takes great pride in the approximately 100 students with whom she has worked. I have had the privilege of meeting with each cohort of the students, and I too have found it to be a highlight of my work here. I know that is the case for many of our colleagues who serve as their mentors.
We at MSBI have been given the privilege of helping students discover their spark and unique talents, potentially leading to enhanced opportunities for personal, academic, and professional success. We don’t take that responsibility lightly and have learned at least as much from them as they have learned from us.