Volunteering and Giving

The Department of Veterans Affairs Voluntary Service (VAVS) was founded in 1946 to provide for our nation's veterans while they are cared for by VA health care facilities. It is the largest centralized volunteer program in the Federal government with over 350 organizations participating that support the VAVS program. VAVS volunteers have donated over 508 million hours of service since the program began.

To provide excellence in support to the Medical Staff to enable them to deliver quality health care to the veteran patient. Encourage the community and service organizations to play an active and rewarding role in the new and innovative approach to Voluntary Service programs and establish a cadre of proficient, dedicated volunteers that provide exemplary service to the veterans.

MISSION STATEMENT

To provide excellence in support to the Southeast Lousiana Veterans Health Care System Staff to enable them to deliver quality health care to the veteran patient. Educate the community and service organizations to the fact that the Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System will be on the cutting edge of health care reform. Encourage the community and service organizations to play an active and rewarding role in the new and innovative approach to Voluntary Service programs and establish a cadre of proficient, dedicated volunteers that provide exemplary service to the veterans.

The Mission of Voluntary Service is best expressed through its desire to SERVE.

• Secure quality service to the veteran patient through creative programs.
  
• Excellence in service to the veteran patients, service organization, Medical Center, medical staff and community.
  
• Recognize the unwavering dedication of volunteers that give their time and talents to enhance the quality of life for our veteran patients.
  
• Veterans and volunteers are the focus. Committed to putting the veterans and his family's needs first. To encourage volunteers to share our vision and join us in promoting excellence in health care and quality service.
  
• Educate the community and service organizations to the fact that they can become a vibrant and intricate part of the Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System and Voluntary Service Programs.
  

HOW DO I SIGN UP TO BE A VAVS VOLUNTEER?

You have two convenient ways:

1. Contact the Voluntary Service Office and tell our staff of your interest in becoming a VAVS volunteer. The staff will take care of everything else including your interview, orientation, and assignment.
2. Go to http://vaww.va.gov/apps/VolunteerNow, click enter. On the Volunteer NOW! Button, find your state and nearest city, fill out the email form with your name and contact information and click send. Someone from that office will then contact you to set up the initial interview.

Point of Contact
Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System Voluntary Service Office at
(504) 565-4859.