Rising high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors across Surry County are volunteering at Northern Regional Hospital during their summer break. Thirty-eight Junior Volunteers fill the hospital hallways throughout June, July, and August, gaining valuable experience in the healthcare field.
“Each January, we distribute applications to all area high schools to recruit Junior Volunteers,” said Tina Beasley, Director of Foundation & Volunteer Services. “Once applications are received, they are carefully reviewed, and a select number of students are accepted into the program. Due to the high level of interest, not all applicants are accepted, making this a highly competitive opportunity. We then work closely with departments across the hospital to identify meaningful placement opportunities. Our goal is to ensure that students have a valuable and rewarding experience during their time with us.
The Junior Volunteer Program is an incredible opportunity for local high school students to explore a variety of healthcare careers—many of which may not be familiar to them. By volunteering in both clinical and non-clinical areas, students gain firsthand insight into the many roles that support a hospital’s operations. This summer, our Junior Volunteers have been especially helpful, stepping in to assist staff in several non-clinical, high-need departments. In addition to exploring career paths, their contributions have supported hospital efficiency, helped reduce operational costs, and positively impacted revenue. Their presence makes a meaningful difference, and we’re proud to help guide them toward future success in healthcare and beyond.”
These students, both new and returning, represent a wide range of local schools and have generously chosen to spend their summer break giving back to their community.
Aliza Hardy of Carroll County High School
Brycen Banks, Karsyn Pennington, Kaylen Pennington, and Megan Poteat of East Surry High School
Yancy Pozo of Forbush High School
Kemp Allen who is Homeschooled
Devansh Patel of Millennium Charter Academy
Bailey Sawyer, Jayden Wall, Lexie Pennix, Riley Key, Sabrina Brown, and Sidney Kate Venable of Mount Airy High School
Abbie Johnston, Heather Childress, Heylen Lopez, Jasmine Vasquez, Kendall Golding, Olivia Mallory, and Sadie Sherlin of North Surry High School
Lacey Easter, Laine Errichetti, Novella Nester, and Sierra Easter of Patrick County High School
Alyssa Mitchem, Anaya Sweatman, Angie Guarneros, Ariana Rios-Perez, Ashlynn Medina, Belinda Juarez, Eva Brown, Evey Eades, Isaiah McCann, Kiya Patel, Love Galyean, Lukas White, and Madeline Needham of Surry Early College High School
Each volunteer must complete the program with a minimum of 40 volunteer hours. Most Junior Volunteers exceeded this requirement, demonstrating their commitment and enthusiasm.
Applications for the next Summer Junior Volunteer program at Northern Regional Hospital will be accepted beginning in January 2026 via their website at choosenorthern.org. For other volunteer opportunities for youth and adults, contact Tina Beasley, Director of Foundation & Volunteer Services, at tbeasley@wearenorthern.org.
