Los Angeles Jewish Home

Vocational nurse students from the Annenberg School of Nursing (ASN) recently visited Hope of the Valley Rescue Mission in Sunland. Led by their instructor, David Cooper, MS (Ed), LVN, and with transportation provided by the Jewish Home, the students spent the day assisting with healthcare services, patient education, and serving meals.

“As nursing students, we spend so much time experiencing nursing through our textbooks,” said ASN student Richard Wagner. “Our field trip to Hope of the Valley was a special experience we shall all cherish for some time to come. It was a real example of what nursing is all about…touching the lives of those who are truly in need.”

Since 2009, Hope of the Valley Rescue Mission has aspired to meet the needs of the “whole” person – spiritually, emotionally, and physically by offering hope, hot meals, housing, health services, and healing to those in need. When the ASN students arrived, Hope staff shared the organization’s history, vision, and programs offered. The students then met with a substance abuse counselor and explored a variety of issues. The ASN students were given assignments, which offered opportunities to interact with clients and providers.

“The Annenberg students proved themselves to be detail oriented, flexible, caring, energetic, and willing to go out of their comfort zone,” said Louise Moore, program director for Hope of the Valley. “In other words, qualities that say “nurse!”

ASN instructor David Cooper felt the experience was enriching and enlightening for the students. “They were able to assist in providing charitable relief to hundreds of individuals in need, helping to feed and distribute supplies to homeless guests.”

The ASN vocational nurse students will be returning to Hope of the Valley Rescue Mission in July, something the students are looking forward to, and staff and clients of Hope of the Valley will greatly appreciate.

Labels: Annenberg School of Nursing, Charity, Giving Back, Hope of the Valley Rescue Mission, Nursing Students, Philanthropy, Vocational Nursing