Are you looking for a meaningful way to contribute to global health right here in Maine? Partners for World Health (PWH) in Maine relies on the dedication of volunteers from the Portland area to carry out its vital mission. Approximately 95% of our work is powered by people just like you, who generously donate their time to sort, process, and pack essential medical supplies. From answering phones to driving donation pickups with our commercial vehicles, there’s a role for everyone. We are always excited to welcome new volunteers to our team!
Volunteers sorting medical supplies in bins
Joining Partners for World Health as a volunteer is a simple three-step process:
- Create an Account: Start by clicking the link provided below to set up your volunteer account.
- Attend Orientation: Sign up for a New Volunteer Orientation session to learn more about our operations and how you can help.
- Start Volunteering: Once you’ve completed orientation, you’ll be ready to jump in and make a difference!
We offer volunteer opportunities during morning hours from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm and afternoon hours from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm to fit your schedule.
INDIVIDUAL VOLUNTEERS – CLICK HERE
If you encounter any issues during sign-up, please consult our helpful FAQs: Signing Up FAQs and Registering for an Event FAQs.
Group of volunteers packing boxes of medical supplies
Looking for a group volunteering experience? Partners For World Health Maine welcomes groups of all kinds! Businesses, religious organizations, school groups, summer camps, and more can schedule half-day or full-day volunteering events with us. It’s a fantastic team-building opportunity that supports a global cause. For group scheduling or further information, please reach out to us at [email protected].
Volunteer Tasks: Sorting, Evaluating, and Repackaging Medical Supplies
Partners for World Health receives tons of donated medical supplies daily. Our dedicated volunteers are crucial in the process of evaluating, sorting, and repackaging these supplies. This essential work prepares the materials for shipment in containers to underserved communities around the world. This hands-on work is a favorite among our volunteers, and tasks include:
- Macrosorting: The initial step of opening donation bags and boxes and broadly categorizing items into general bins.
- Microsorting: Taking the macrosorted bins and further refining the categories into more specific groupings.
- Counting, Bagging, and Labeling: Preparing items for kits and shipments by counting, bagging similar items together, and ensuring proper labeling.
- Kit Creation: Assembling specialized kits of supplies such as respiratory, surgical, and birthing kits, tailored to specific medical needs.
- Packing and Shipping Preparation: Carefully packing, sealing, and labeling boxes to ensure safe and efficient shipment of medical aid.
Suzan Mistler-Belcher, Executive Director of Partners for World Health Maine
But did you know that Partners for World Health Maine offers even more ways to contribute beyond sorting? Explore the link below to discover additional volunteer needs and opportunities to get involved!
ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
Volunteer Testimonials: The Impact of Your Time
Hear from volunteers themselves about their experiences at Partners for World Health Maine. When asked to describe their experience in one word, volunteers responded:
“Wow” “Impact” “Eye-opening” “Extraordinary” “Gratifying” “Fun” “Value” “Beneficial” “Inspiring” “Amazing” “Rewarding” “Organized” “Exhilarating” “Shocked” “Meaningful” “Positive” “Awesome” “Uplifting” and even “Best Place Ever!”
Volunteer with a box of medical supplies
Volunteers also shared what inspired them during their time at PWH Maine:
“It is so amazing that we can do something so simple to help so many people in need.”
“The enthusiasm, story and the impact this place has!”
“I felt like I was making a difference!”
“Working toward such a moving mission is fulfilling!”
“I like being part of something bigger than me.”
Volunteers working together at tables sorting medical items
Other comments from volunteers included:
“I was really surprised at the amount of supplies thrown away at hospitals.”
“Well-explained & executable.”
“Meaningful work, good volunteer leadership.”
“Everyone was happy!”
“Such a good feeling!”
“Great Cause.”
“Amazing organization! Keep up the good work!”
Volunteers smiling and working together
Join the dedicated team at Partners for World Health Maine and experience the rewarding feeling of making a tangible difference in global healthcare. Your time and effort directly contribute to providing essential medical resources to those in need worldwide. Sign up to volunteer today and become a partner in world health!
