The Sheridan VA is looking for volunteers

The Sheridan VA Healthcare System is celebrating its 100th birthday this year and to help celebrate, the VA is opening the campus to reconnect with the community. 

The Sheridan VA is a home away from home for many veterans who are undergoing treatments and care. It is a place veterans can get clothing at no charge, a meal, get in shape in a wellness center and receive health care. Due to COVID-19 restrictions the campus had to close to the general public to protect at risk veterans and their families. 

But now according to Sheridan VA Community Engagement Lead Eric Vielhauer, the campus is opening to the community and much needed volunteers are being welcomed back. Vielhauer told listeners of Sheridan Media’s Public Pulse program that the organization is in search of more volunteers from the Sheridan and surrounding communities. 

Some services have suffered because there have not been volunteers to fill the manpower needed. The wellness center that allows veterans to maintain or get back in shape has been stifled to hour and a half operation periods. Donated clothes for veterans are piling up because there are few volunteers to help clean and sort them before being distributed. Chapel volunteers are also needed, many veterans have trouble getting to church services due to ailments that require assistance and the need is high. 

There are many different jobs available and Vielhauer told listeners he wants to ensure volunteers get a job they enjoy performing and leave feeling fulfilled.

To volunteer your time to the Sheridan VA, call Eric Vielhauer at 307-675-3226. Volunteers must be up to date with vaccinations against COVID-19 to protect at risk veterans.