Havre, Montana – The Northern Montana Hospital Auxiliary chose to recognize one of their Volunteens, Houston Cappellen, with a $1000 College Scholarship. Houston has worked over 200 hours as a teen volunteer at Northern Montana Hospital (NMH) and is the grandson of another longtime volunteer, Esther Cappellen.
Upon graduation from Havre High School, Houston will be attending the Summit Christian College in Scottsbluff, Nebraska. He plans to pursue a career in Youth Ministry.
The Volunteen program has been in effect at NMH for over 20 years. “It has been a wonderful way to show our youth integrity, compassion and professionalism.” says Claire Wendland, RN, Director of Senior Connection and Volunteer Services. “The teens are asked to commit to a volunteering schedule which helps them learn commitment. During their time with us they help in the Stop n Shop Gift Shop, the Java Junction Coffee and Gift Shop, the administration areas and especially at the Northern Montana Care Center. Through their interactions with residents, patients and NMH employees they see first-hand how important a role compassion plays in health care. And because we require these teens to follow current Health Information Privacy Protection Act (HIPAA) guidelines, they learn integrity.”
Son of Harvey and Marianne Capellen, Houston has been working as a Volunteen since he was 12 years-old. His duties include delivering newspapers, inventorying stock for the gift shops and playing BINGO at the Care Center. The contributions of the Volunteens to the Volunteer programs at NMH add another dimension to the program. “And Houston has certainly personified that spirit of Volunteerism here at NMH” adds Claire Wendland. “We’re very proud of Houston and we wish him much success in his future endeavors. He will be missed. “
Teens interested in the Volunteen program at NMH may visit www.NMHcare.org and visit the Volunteer page to download a Student Volunteen Application or call Claire or Mim at 262-1327.