Volunteer Drivers Sought

The VA Loma Linda Healthcare System and its Community Clinics throughout Southern California are currently seeking volunteer drivers to help transport veterans to VA appointments. Many local veterans have limited resources, are too sick to drive, or have no access to public transportation. Drivers are urgently needed in the following locations: • LOMA LINDA: Drivers in the greater San Bernardino/Riverside areas transport patients to appointments at the VA Hospital in Loma Linda. • COACHELLA VALLEY/MORONGO VALLEY: Drivers in the Cabazon Area and Coachella Valley/Palm Springs/Palm Desert will transport veterans to appointments at the VA Hospital in Loma Linda using donated vans from AMVETS (American Veterans). • HIGH DESERT: Drivers in the High Desert Communities around Victorville will transport patients to the Outpatient Clinic in Victorville or to the VA Medical Center in Loma Linda using donated vans from the Disabled American Veterans (DAV). • HEMET/MENIFEE/MURRIETA/TEMECULA: Drivers in these communities will transport patients from the Murrieta Clinic to VA Medical Center in Loma Linda using donated vans from DAV. Volunteer drivers will operate a VA Medical Center van. A regular California driver’s license is required to drive the 7-passenger vehicle. All drivers must have automobile insurance; however, VA covers any accidents that may occur during volunteer assignments. Drivers must pass the physical exam provided free by the VA. Drivers do not physically lift patients into the vehicle, but may be asked to provide some help for the ambulatory riders, such as adjusting seat belts, holding the door open, placing the step stool for the riders to board or unload from the van. “Volunteers are a crucial part of the care veterans receive at our medical center,” said Voluntary Services Chief Diana Gellentien. “They provide a link to the community and remind veterans that their service has not been forgotten.” Other VA Volunteers donate their time escorting patients to appointments, greeting patients and visitors, assisting at the information desk and providing administrative support. Volunteers also assist with recreational activities in the community living center of the medical center. VA volunteers receive a free lunch on days they volunteer and regular recognition in the form of service awards and ceremonies. For more information or to volunteer, call (909) 825-7084, ext. 6011. You can also get started by sending an email to llvavolunteers@va.gov for more information. A volunteer packet will be emailed to you with specific instructions on how to become a driver.