--- title: "From blood drives to companionship: Six ways to make a difference in healthcare" description: December is National Volunteering Month, a time to recognize the power of giving back and to inspire others to make a difference. image: https://blog.massgeneralbrighamhealthplan.org/hubfs/iStock-2182101111.jpg --- [![MGB_Health_Plan_horiz_rgb-1](https://blog.massgeneralbrighamhealthplan.org/hubfs/Mass%20General%20Brigham%20Health%20Plan/Logos/MGB_Health_Plan_horiz_rgb-1.svg)](https://www.massgeneralbrighamhealthplan.org/) ![](https://blog.massgeneralbrighamhealthplan.org/hubfs/iStock-2182101111.jpg) # From blood drives to companionship: Six ways to make a difference in healthcare Published by [Jim Milke](https://blog.massgeneralbrighamhealthplan.org/author/jim-milke) on December 10, 2025 December is National Volunteering Month, a time to recognize the power of giving back and to inspire others to make a difference. One of the most impactful ways to [volunteer](https://blog.massgeneralbrighamhealthplan.org/how-volunteering-affects-your-health) is in the healthcare sector, where your time, skills, or even your blood can help save lives. What’s more, volunteering in healthcare is a powerful way to put compassion into action, where you can find real ways to serve others, grow personally, and strengthen your community. ### 6 meaningful ways to contribute 1. **Volunteer at a hospital or clinic** Many hospitals welcome volunteers to assist with administrative tasks, patient transport, or simply offering companionship to patients and families. Some responsibilities may include: - Greeting and directing visitors - Delivering meals or flowers - Assisting with clerical work - Providing companionship to patients - Supporting fundraising events - Helping in gift shops or waiting rooms These tasks may seem small, but they make a big difference in the daily operations of healthcare facilities and the emotional well-being of patients. 1. **Donate blood or platelets** Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. Donating blood is a quick, safe, and powerful way to help patients undergoing surgery, cancer treatment, or trauma care. 1. **Support mental health organizations** You can volunteer as a crisis line responder, peer support advocate, or help with outreach and education efforts. 1. **Deliver meals or medications** Programs like Meals on Wheels or local pharmacies often need volunteers to deliver essential items to homebound patients. 1. **Provide support at senior centers or nursing homes** At many nursing homes or senior centers, you can provide companionship, lead activities, or assist with the delivery or collection of meals. 1. **Fundraising and advocacy** Many healthcare non-profits have a continuous need for volunteers who can help with fundraising, events, or social media outreach. ### Organizations where you can start your healthcare volunteering journey: 1. **American Red Cross** [https://www.redcross.org](https://www.redcross.org)From blood drives to disaster relief, the Red Cross offers a wide range of volunteer roles. 2. **Project HOPE** [https://www.projecthope.org](https://www.projecthope.org/)This global health and humanitarian organization offers both domestic and international volunteer opportunities. 3. **National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)** [https://www.nami.org](https://www.nami.org/)Volunteer to support mental health education, advocacy, and peer support programs. 4. **Americares** [https://www.americares.org](https://www.americares.org)Help deliver medical aid and health programs to communities affected by poverty or disaster. 5. **Be The Match** [https://bethematch.org](https://www.nmdp.org/)Join the bone marrow registry or volunteer to raise awareness about life-saving transplants. Volunteering doesn’t have to be a grand gesture — it can be as simple as donating blood, making a phone call, or offering a few hours of your time. This December, consider how you can give back in a way that supports health, healing, and strength to your community. Learn more about a [day in the life of a volunteer](https://blog.massgeneralbrighamhealthplan.org/a-day-in-the-life-of-a-volunteer-and-the-surprising-health-benefits-that-come-with)and the surprising health benefits that come with it.  [![Copy Option 3-4](https://blog.massgeneralbrighamhealthplan.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Copy%20Option%203-4.png?width=3000&height=1250&name=Copy%20Option%203-4.png)](https://massgeneralbrighamhealthplan.org/lp/financialhealth) [Back to Blog](https://blog.massgeneralbrighamhealthplan.org) ## Related articles ## [How to get involved during Eating Disorders Awareness Week](https://blog.massgeneralbrighamhealthplan.org/national-eating-disorders-awareness-week-how-to-get-involved) This year, the National Eating Disorders Association recognizes Eating Disorders Awareness Week... [Read More](https://blog.massgeneralbrighamhealthplan.org/national-eating-disorders-awareness-week-how-to-get-involved) ## [Bleeding disorders 101: Understanding hemophilia and more](https://blog.massgeneralbrighamhealthplan.org/bleeding-disorders-101-understanding-hemophilia-and-more) Bleeding disorders don’t always look the way you’d expect, and they don’t always show up in obvious... [Read More](https://blog.massgeneralbrighamhealthplan.org/bleeding-disorders-101-understanding-hemophilia-and-more) ## [Challenging misconceptions about eating disorders](https://blog.massgeneralbrighamhealthplan.org/challenging-misconceptions-about-eating-disorders) Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions that can affect anyone. However, they’re... [Read More](https://blog.massgeneralbrighamhealthplan.org/challenging-misconceptions-about-eating-disorders) Back to Top © 2026 Mass General Brigham Incorporated. All Rights Reserved.