At CrossOver, we are in critical need of volunteers to serve as Spanish language interpreters. Due to a current shortage of interpreters, front office staff and clinic managers are often pulled away from their responsibilities in order to assist with interpretation. Please read on to find out if you or someone you know can help!
Volunteers should be fluent in both English and Spanish and will complete a volunteer orientation and interpreter training process. Because of COVID-19, we have opened up the opportunity for interpreters to serve remotely over the phone or via video. We also have in-person opportunities in our medical clinic as well as our vision clinic. Shifts are primarily on weekdays between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m., and we also have a few evening opportunities available. Even a 4-hour shift once per week (or even every other week!) is a big help to our patients and staff.
“Interpreters are extremely important in helping to provide the high quality care we promise our patients,” says Becca Wethered, CrossOver’s community engagement manager. “Interpreters allow patients to communicate about health needs and concerns in their own language. This breaks down barriers and facilitates trust between the patient and the provider. This is a crucial part of CrossOver’s relationship-building in our community, and interpreters make it possible.”
If you or someone you know might be able to serve as a CrossOver volunteer interpreter, please email Becca at bwethered@crossoverministry.org. You can also help us spread the word to those who might be able to help. Thank you for sharing your gifts with the patients we serve!