College of Agriculture & Natural Resources Department of Horticulture

Assignment Title

VA Flint clinic: Gardening / Greenhouse Assistant

Purpose

To assist VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System (VAAAHS) Flint staff with engaging Veterans in the benefits of horticulture.

Department & Location

Flint CBOC

2360 South Linden Road

Flint, MI 48532-5483

Supervisor & Phone Number

Rashelle (Shelly) Kenel, Nurse Manager

(734) 769-7100 x52628

Specific Duties

1.    Maintain a cheerful and supportive presence in greenhouse.

2.    Assist with cultivating, planning and engaging Veterans with the greenhouse. well maintained and clean of debris.

3.    Helps plant and manage the upkeep of seasonal beds/plots.

1. Assist with removing debris, keeping area clean.

5.    Speak to the benefit of healthy herbs and importance of working with hands

6.    Visit with Veterans.

Time Required

Varies between normal business hours (Monday-Friday) but typically a 2-hour shift, 1 - 2 days per week.

Qualifications

·         Demonstrates excellent customer service skills.

·         Kind, courteous, and dependable individual.

·         Personable, possesses good interpersonal skills.

·         Consistently communications and treats customers (Veterans, family members, and all VA staff) in a courteous, tactful, and respectful manner.

·         Handles conflict and problems in dealing with customers professionally, constructively and appropriately.

·         Must be able to stand, walk, and do some light lifting.

·         Able to read planting instructions and use hand/gardening tools

·         Must be flexible in kinds of duties performed/needed during shift.

·         Must keep Veteran information/discussions private.

·         Volunteer must be 18 years old or older.

·         Must have a good driving record.

·         Volunteer must pass a physical exam through VA Employee Health.

VAVS Training/

Orientation

Volunteer Orientation

Assignment Specific Training

Volunteer will be trained by VAAAHS Fisher House Manager and/or other VAAAHS Fisher House staff and will receive a Fisher House Orientation. Volunteer will also receive golf cart training.