Supplying Comfort to Children in Rural Virginia Hospitals: A Grassroots Effort That's Growing
After shadowing in three different regional hospitals, Cora Shields chose to volunteer in the ER and Acute Care at UVA Health--Culpeper where she could make an impact. Noticing the lack of hospital resources for children in rural areas, she fostered connections between her volunteer coordinator and a local donor to deliver 58 fun-themed pillowcases for children at Culpeper ER. Cora is now in the process of identifying further needs to address for children undergoing healthcare in rural Virginia.
Griffin Williford collaborated with Future Americans in Medicine Club at his local high school, which collected supplies for Jared's Toy Box at Mary Washington Hospital. He is now excited to coordinate donation drives to help children in hospitals in underserved areas of Virginia.
After Cora founded Medical Careers Club at Riverbend high school, she reached out to Griffin through Future Americans in Medicine at Courtland High School. They decided to spearhead a campaign, but they needed more help. Cora then assembled a team of students to serve as her Board of Directors.
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These students had impressive records of leadership, community service, and a desire to make an impact in healthcare. Together, they are spearheading the initiative to collaborate with 6 healthcare facilities across rural Virginia. Helping Hands in Healthcare now aims to identify what items are needed to bring comfort, support, and joy to children in underserved areas. HHH will raise the funds to purchase these supplies and personally deliver them.
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Their fundraiser Casino Night is coming November 8th!
