Local Responder Takes Homeland Security Training

Vicki Buchanan, emergency responder and a registered nurse with Florida Hospital Zephyrhills, completed training offering by the Center for Domestic Preparedness in Anniston, Alabama.
The CDP is operated by the United States Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency and is the only federally chartered Weapons of Mass Destruction training facility in the nation.
Buchanan is a 23-year employee with the hospital and currently serves as a nursing supervisor. She has served as the hospital’s liaison with the Pasco County ESF No. 8 Healthcare Coalition, and is a member of the Medical Reserve Corps. Buchanan also leads the hospital’s Emergency Response Team.

Gulfside looking for volunteers

Gulfside Hospital is looking for volunteers. Opportunities include sitting with patients, providing spiritual care and counseling, assisting with the Pet Peace of Mind program, and helping in the administrative offices.
Thrift shop volunteers also are needed for shifts at all five stores to help with accepting and sorting donations, organizing shelves and window displays, greeting customers and running the cash register. Volunteers also are needed at Gulfside’s Centers for Hospice Care to serve meals, answer phones and greet guests.
Orientation sessions are scheduled throughout the month for anyone interested in becoming a volunteer. Volunteers must be at least 15 years old.
For information, call (800) 561-4883.