Volunteer Information

Volunteering through the Hertford County Health Science Academy offers students invaluable experiences that foster both personal and professional growth. It promotes personal development by instilling a sense of civic responsibility and commitment to service. Through service learning, students integrate academic knowledge with real-world applications, reinforcing classroom concepts in practical healthcare settings. Volunteers enhance their problem-solving and critical thinking skills by navigating real healthcare challenges while gaining a deeper understanding of healthcare systems and the complexities they face. These experiences also serve as resume-building opportunities, strengthening college applications and career prospects. Additionally, students benefit from networking opportunities, connecting with healthcare professionals who can provide mentorship and future job leads. Most importantly, volunteering helps students cultivate empathy and compassion, allowing them to develop meaningful relationships with patients and gain a deeper appreciation for the human side of medicine.

Students in the Hertford County Health Science Academy will receive access to their volunteer log via a shared Google Form through their HCPS email. The log, titled "Hertford County HSA Volunteer Log 25/26," is used to track and document all completed volunteer hours. Students are responsible for updating the log each time they complete volunteer work, and program staff will follow up with organizations and supervisors to verify the recorded hours. To remain in good standing, students must complete 25 volunteer hours per year by the end of April. Keeping an accurate and up-to-date log ensures that students receive proper credit for their service and continue progressing in the program.

Non Clinical

Students in the Hertford County Health Science Academy have several non-clinical volunteer opportunities to serve their community while gaining valuable experience. They can participate in church-based service projects, such as organizing blood, food, and toy drives, or volunteer at community events, including festivals and fundraisers. Additionally, students can support service organizations, such as food banks, domestic shelters, and clothing facilities, helping those in need. Volunteer opportunities also extend to recreational activities, where students can assist with concession stands, event setup, and cleanup efforts. These experiences allow students to develop teamwork, leadership, and service-oriented skills while making a meaningful impact in their community.

Clinical

Students in the Hertford County Health Science Academy have access to a variety of clinical volunteer opportunities that provide hands-on experience in healthcare settings. Rising 10th, 11th, and 12th graders can participate in the ECU Roanoke Chowan VolunTeen Program, a summer program requiring 30 hours of service, where students gain exposure to hospital environments. At the Health Department, students can assist with kit packing and informational events, helping to educate the community on important health topics. Volunteer opportunities are also available at private clinics and pharmacies, where students can contribute by cleaning, filing, and sorting materials to support daily operations. Additionally, students can enhance their skills by participating in Hertford County Clinical Workshops, held at HCPS, where they engage in hands-on learning experiences. These opportunities allow students to develop essential skills, gain real-world insight into the healthcare field, and build a strong foundation for future medical careers.